Who should primarily oversee the care tasks assigned to the LPN?

The registered nurse (RN) should primarily oversee the care tasks assigned to the licensed practical nurse (LPN) because it is part of the RN's role to ensure that all nursing care delivered is safe, effective, and adheres to established standards. The RN is responsible for the overall patient assessment, planning, and evaluation of care, which includes supervising the work of the LPN.

The RN has the necessary training and scope of practice to provide guidance and support, ensuring that LPNs adhere to care delivery protocols and handle complex patient needs appropriately. By overseeing these tasks, the RN can ensure that patient care is coordinated and that the entire nursing team functions effectively to achieve positive patient outcomes.

In contrast, while the nursing supervisor may have oversight responsibilities in a broader sense, their focus is often on management and administrative duties rather than direct oversight of LPN tasks. Unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) typically assist with basic care and do not possess the clinical oversight needed for LPNs, while a physician primarily focuses on medical management rather than the nursing care provision approach that RNs supervise. Hence, the RN’s role in supervising LPNs is critical for ensuring quality care in skilled nursing environments.