When working with a licensed practical nurse, which task is appropriate to assign for post-procedure care after a cardiac intervention?

When managing post-procedure care after a cardiac intervention, monitoring for complications such as bleeding at the catheter site is crucial. This task is highly appropriate for a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to undertake, as they are trained to observe, assess, and report changes in a patient's condition.

Monitoring bleeding is essential because any excessive bleeding can indicate a complication that needs immediate attention. The LPN is equipped to evaluate the site, recognize abnormal findings, and communicate effectively with the registered nurse or physician regarding any concerns. This level of assessment falls within the scope of practice for an LPN, making it a suitable assignment.

In contrast, administering pain medication typically requires a higher level of assessment and clinical judgment, which is generally beyond the scope of an LPN, particularly in a case concerning pain management in a post-procedure context. Assisting with a urinal is a supportive task, but it does not directly relate to the critical post-operative monitoring needed at the catheter site. Additionally, performing initial post-procedure vital sign measurements is usually a responsibility designated to registered nurses, as they need to interpret those vital signs in the context of the patient's overall clinical picture. Thus, assigning the monitoring of bleeding at the catheter site to an LPN leverages their