Which task is appropriate to delegate to an LPN/LVN who is functioning under the supervision of an RN in an ophthalmology setting?

Which task is appropriate to delegate to an LPN/LVN who is functioning under the supervision of an RN in an ophthalmology setting?

• A. Assessing the sexual implications for a client with oculogenital-type Chlamydia trachomatis infection
• B. Administering sulfacetamide sodium 10% (Sulf-10 Ophthalmic) to a child with conjunctivitis
• C. Reviewing hand-washing and hygiene practices with clients who have eye infections
• D. Showing clients how to gently cleanse eyelid margins to remove crusting

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that LPNs/LVNs can handle routine, stable patient-care tasks under the supervision of an RN, including medication administration. Administering the prescribed ophthalmic antibiotic drops to a child with conjunctivitis is a straightforward, order-based task that fits the LPN scope. The LPN can verify the order, prepare and instill the drops, and monitor for immediate adverse effects, while the RN remains responsible for overall assessment, monitoring response, and addressing any complications. The other tasks involve aspects that typically require RN-level assessment, planning, or more complex education. Assessing sexual implications for a client with oculogenital infection requires in-depth psychosocial assessment and clinical judgment. Teaching general hygiene practices or demonstrating eyelid cleansing are important educational activities, but they are not as clearly aligned with the delegated, routine medication administration task in this ophthalmology setting.

The main idea is that LPNs/LVNs can handle routine, stable patient-care tasks under the supervision of an RN, including medication administration. Administering the prescribed ophthalmic antibiotic drops to a child with conjunctivitis is a straightforward, order-based task that fits the LPN scope. The LPN can verify the order, prepare and instill the drops, and monitor for immediate adverse effects, while the RN remains responsible for overall assessment, monitoring response, and addressing any complications.

The other tasks involve aspects that typically require RN-level assessment, planning, or more complex education. Assessing sexual implications for a client with oculogenital infection requires in-depth psychosocial assessment and clinical judgment. Teaching general hygiene practices or demonstrating eyelid cleansing are important educational activities, but they are not as clearly aligned with the delegated, routine medication administration task in this ophthalmology setting.