# The charge nurse on a medical-surgical unit is assigning tasks for a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an assistive personnel (AP). Which task is appropriate to delegate to the AP?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=393555&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Assignment/Delegation/Supervision  
> category: MOC

## Question

The charge nurse on a medical-surgical unit is assigning tasks for a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an assistive personnel (AP). Which task is appropriate to delegate to the AP?

## Option

1. Obtain and document routine vital signs for a stable client awaiting discharge. **✔ Correct answer**
2. Assess a new report of chest pressure in a client with heart failure.
3. Teach a client how to use a new incentive spirometer after surgery.
4. Evaluate pain relief after the first dose of IV morphine.

**Correct answer: 1**

## Explanation

Routine vital signs for a stable client are predictable, low risk, and within AP scope when the RN gives direction and follow-up. Teaching, evaluation of medication response, and assessment of a new potentially unstable symptom require licensed nursing judgment.

## In-depth explanation

Clinical Judgment
Match the task to client stability, predictability, staff competence, and RN supervision.

Memory Tip
Stable and routine can be delegated; assessment, teaching, and evaluation stay with licensed nurses.

KR vs US
NCLEX delegation questions separate RN judgment from AP task performance more strictly than many local workflow habits.

## Clinical scenario

Clinical Practice Guide
Delegation is safest when the client is stable, the task is routine, expected outcomes are clear, and the RN can supervise and evaluate.

Caution
Do not delegate assessment, initial teaching, clinical evaluation, or unstable client changes to AP.

## Key concepts

- **Delegation** — Transfer of responsibility for performing a task while the RN keeps accountability for outcome and supervision.
- **Scope of Practice** — The legal and policy boundary that defines which tasks each role may perform.
- **Supervision** — RN direction, follow-up, and evaluation after assigning or delegating a task.

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