Which of the following tasks would be appropriate to delegate to the LPN working with you on a client who has pulmonary edema?

a) Administer a nesiritide bolus IV and hang the drip per protocol.

b) Assist respiratory therapy in applying BiPAP to the client.

c) Give Lasix 40 mg PO and potassium chloride 20 mEq PO.

d) Notify the physician of the client's 12-lead electrocardiogram.

The most suitable task to delegate to an LPN when treating a patient with pulmonary edema would be to administer oral medications such as Lasix and potassium chloride, which are within the typical LPN scope of practice.

Explanation:

In the clinical setting, delegation is a key component in managing patient care effectively. When delegating tasks to an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse), it is important to consider the scope of practice and the complexity of the task. With a patient experiencing pulmonary edema, tasks should be delegated appropriately to ensure patient safety and the delivery of high-quality care.

Considering the options provided, the most suitable task to delegate to an LPN would be to 'Give Lasix 40 mg PO and potassium chloride 20 mEq PO'. Administration of medications like Lasix (furosemide), a diuretic, and potassium chloride is typically within the LPN scope of practice, provided they have the necessary knowledge and skills to identify potential side effects and complications.

On the other hand, tasks such as administering a nesiritide bolus IV, assessing respiratory therapy during the application of BiPAP, and notifying the physician of the client's electrocardiogram results would generally require the higher level of clinical judgment and advanced practice associated with a Registered Nurse (RN) or a higher medical authority.