Which client would be best to assign to the LPN/LVN on the step-down cardiac unit?

Assigning the 66-year-old client who is scheduled for discharge later that day and has a prescription for a nitroglycerin patch to the LPN/LVN is appropriate for several reasons.

This client is stable and nearing discharge, meaning their care primarily involves education and ensuring that they understand how to manage their medications, including the application of the nitroglycerin patch. The LPN/LVN is equipped to provide education on medication management, recognizing potential side effects of nitroglycerin, and advising the patient on when to report adverse effects. Since the client is not exhibiting any acute symptoms or complications, they can safely be managed by an LPN/LVN without immediate supervision by an RN.

In contrast, the other clients on the list require more complex care and closer monitoring. The individual with chest pain after a recent pacemaker insertion presents a potential risk for complications, requiring ongoing assessment and evaluation by an RN. The client who underwent open heart surgery just four days ago and has a fever may indicate a post-operative infection or complication, necessitating more intensive nursing interventions. The client who had a stent placed only two hours ago and is experiencing bursts of ventricular tachycardia is in a potentially unstable condition, requiring immediate and advanced cardiac