Which task is most typically within the scope of an LPN?

• A. Administering all medications
• B. Monitoring RN findings and reinforcing education
• C. Developing care plans
• D. Leading discharge planning

Answer: (B)

LPNs focus on providing basic bedside care and data collection under the supervision of an RN, including observing patient status, reporting changes, and reinforcing education already provided by the RN. Monitoring the RN’s findings and reinforcing education fits this role because it involves continuing to assess the patient and ensure understanding without taking on independent planning or discharge coordination.

Administering all medications isn’t typical for an LPN, since only certain meds and routes are within their delegated scope and higher-risk medications often require RN oversight. Developing care plans is mainly an RN responsibility due to the need for comprehensive assessment and planning. Leading discharge planning involves coordinating a patient’s transition home, a task usually handled by an RN or case management.