Which task is appropriate for a charge nurse to assign to a LPN/VN?

The assignment of collecting data on a new client admit is appropriate for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Vocational Nurse (VN) because it involves gathering essential information under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN). This task is within the scope of practice for LPNs/VNs, as they are trained to conduct initial assessments, gather medical histories, and document vital signs, all of which are fundamental components of the admission process.

In contrast, some of the other tasks mentioned require a higher level of clinical judgment or advanced training that typically belongs to registered nurses. For example, administering morphine intravenously involves more complex nursing responsibilities, including assessing for pain and potential side effects, which goes beyond the LPN’s scope. Similarly, bolus feeding through a gastrostomy tube and monitoring a PCA pump also involve more intricate patient management skills that may require an RN’s expertise to ensure safety and proper intervention if complications arise.