Which statement best reflects safe delegation to licensed practical nurses (LPN) versus UAP?

• A. LPNs may perform limited nursing assessments and interventions under supervision, whereas UAPs perform only routine tasks not requiring nursing judgment.
• B. LPNs can perform full independent nursing diagnoses
• C. UAPs can administer prescription medications
• D. LPNs are not allowed to monitor patients

Answer: (A)

Understanding delegation starts with the level of training and authority each role has. Licensed practical nurses have nursing licensure and can perform certain nursing assessments and interventions, but not independently; they work under supervision and within a defined plan of care. Unlicensed assistive personnel are trained for routine tasks that don’t require nursing judgment, such as basic daily care and other supportive duties, and they report changes to the nurse. That combination—LPNs doing limited nursing assessments and interventions under supervision, while UAPs handle routine tasks that don’t involve nursing judgment—best reflects safe delegation. The other statements misstate scope of practice: LPNs don’t perform full independent nursing diagnoses, UAPs don’t administer prescription medications, and LPNs do monitor patients under appropriate supervision.