When delegating tasks, which aspect should the nurse assess regarding LPN/VNs?

When delegating tasks to LPNs/VNs, assessing experience and agency policies is crucial because these factors directly influence the safety and effectiveness of patient care. LPNs/VNs have specific training and are equipped to perform certain tasks under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) or other healthcare professionals. Understanding their past experience helps the nurse determine whether the LPN/VN is capable of handling the specific duties being delegated.

Agency policies also establish guidelines that govern what LPNs/VNs are authorized to do within the facility, ensuring adherence to legal and professional standards. This helps maintain a consistent approach to patient care and safeguards against delegating tasks that exceed the LPN/VN’s scope of practice. By prioritizing both experience and agency policies, nurses can delegate appropriately, ensuring that patient care is both safe and compliant with the institutional framework.

While the other options reference important factors—such as the nurse's ability to perform independent tasks, patient health literacy, and staffing ratios—they do not focus on the qualifications or policy requirements necessary for successfully delegating tasks to LPNs/VNs. By emphasizing experience and agency policies, the nurse can make informed and responsible decisions when it comes to delegation.