Who should predominantly care for unstable patients in a clinical setting?

Registered nurses (RNs) are predominantly responsible for the care of unstable patients in clinical settings due to their extensive education and training, which equips them with the critical thinking, clinical judgment, and assessment skills necessary to manage complex medical situations. RNs are prepared to perform comprehensive patient assessments, develop and implement care plans, and make urgent decisions regarding patient care. They are also trained to recognize signs of deterioration in a patient's condition and initiate appropriate interventions.

In contrast, licensed practical nurses (LPN/VN) have a more limited scope of practice and typically work under the supervision of RNs. While they can provide care for stable patients and assist with some procedures, they may not be equipped to handle the complexities of unstable patients effectively. Nurse assistants provide basic care and support activities but are not trained to perform advanced assessments or interventions. Support staff may assist with non-clinical tasks but are not involved in direct patient care, especially for those who are unstable. This delineation of roles underscores the critical nursing workforce structure that prioritizes patient safety and high-quality care for those with more significant health care needs.