The LPN/LVN describes herself as working in an expanded role in a ...

[EY67]

The LPN/LVN describes herself as working in an expanded role in a long-term care facility. What is the most correct interpretation of this statement?
 
  a. The LPN/LVN is able to administer oral medications.
  b. The LPN/LVN is a first-line manager responsible to the RN.
  c. The LPN/LVN formulates nursing diagnoses and care plans.
  d. The LPN/LVN interprets and implements research findings.

Question 2

The role of the LPN/LVN can best be described as which of the following?
 
  a. Initiates all health teaching
  b. Works in an independent role
  c. Initiates all phases of the nursing process
  d. Assists with all phases of the nursing process

[Kjones0604]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The expanded role of the LPN/LVN in long-term care occurs in the role of manager of care. The LPN/LVN may be a first-line manager, supervising care given by LPN/LVNs and unlicensed assistive personnel while being directly responsible to the RN nurse manager. Oral medication administration is part of the traditional role. Formulation of nursing diagnoses and care plans and interpreting and implementing research findings are outside the LPN/LVN role. The LPN/LVN assists in implementing research findings.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Initiating health teaching, working in an independent role, and initiating all phases of the nursing process are roles of the RN. An RN initiates all health teaching; an LPN/LVN initiates health teaching for basic health habits and reinforces the health teaching of the RN in other areas. An RN works in an independent role; an LPN/LVN identifies possible new nursing problems and reports them to the RN. An RN initiates all phases of the nursing process and formulates nursing diagnoses; an LPN/LVN assists with all phases of the nursing process and works with established nursing diagnoses.