What role does a Licensed Practice Nurse (LPN) fulfill?

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) primarily functions as a crucial member of the healthcare team, providing essential patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a physician. This role involves undertaking routine tasks that might include monitoring vital signs, administering medication (within the scope of practice allowed for LPNs), assisting patients with activities of daily living, and providing basic healthcare services.

The emphasis on working under supervision highlights the LPN's supportive position in the healthcare hierarchy, where they contribute to patient care but do not have the same level of authority or responsibility as RNs or doctors. Their training equips them for hands-on care and basic clinical responsibilities, which is vital for the overall care delivered to patients.

In contrast, the other options describe roles that either exceed the LPN's typical scope of practice, such as providing specialized care or prescribing medications, or involve higher-level decision-making and coordination functions that are generally the responsibility of RNs or healthcare managers. Coordinating healthcare team activities, for example, typically requires more advanced skills and training than what LPNs are designed for in their role. This clear delineation of duties allows for a functional and efficient healthcare delivery system, ensuring that each professional can work within their competencies to deliver the best