A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a group of expectant parents regarding the proper use of a car seat. Which of the following statements by a parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The charge nurse should explain to the assistive personnel (AP) that one of the responsibilities of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is providing direct client care. LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and are trained to deliver basic nursing care to clients. This includes tasks such as administering medications, monitoring vital signs, dressing wounds, assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), and reporting any changes in the client's condition to the RN.

The other options are not typically within the scope of practice for an LPN:

a. Coordinating client care: The coordination of client care is primarily the responsibility of the RN. While LPNs may contribute to the coordination of care by providing input and collaborating with the healthcare team, the overall coordination is usually managed by the RN.

c. Assessing a client's health status: Assessing a client's health status is a role primarily performed by RNs. LPNs may gather data and contribute to the assessment process, but the comprehensive assessment and interpretation of data is typically the responsibility of the RN.

d. Identifying specific client health problems: Identifying specific client health problems and formulating nursing diagnoses is part of the RN's role. LPNs may assist in collecting data and providing input, but the identification and formulation of nursing diagnoses are within the scope of practice of the RN.

Answer: C

Rationale:

A) Apply a topical corticosteroid ointment to the scalp: Corticosteroids are not indicated for the treatment of Pediculosis capitis (head lice). The treatment focuses on eliminating the lice and nits, typically through pediculicide medications like permethrin or ivermectin. Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and itching, but they do not kill the lice or their eggs.

B) Soak hair brushes and combs in soapy water: Soaking hair brushes and combs in soapy water alone is not sufficient to kill lice. Items such as hair brushes should be soaked in hot water (130°F or higher) for at least 5-10 minutes to ensure any lice or nits present are killed. This is a critical step to prevent reinfestation.

C) Wash the bed linens in hot water: Washing bed linens in hot water (130°F or higher) is essential to eliminate lice and nits that may have transferred onto bedding. This prevents the spread and recurrence of lice. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for 2 weeks to kill the lice.

D) Clean the child's toys with a 1:10 bleach solution: Lice are spread through direct contact and cannot live on inanimate objects for long periods. Cleaning toys with bleach is unnecessary for lice removal and can be harmful to the toys or the child if not properly rinsed.