Accountability

[RN2017now]

Ran up against a scenario and need advice. If an LPN is caring for a patient but an RN is "charging" who is responsible if wound care doesn't get performed that shift? I thought both, because they both carry licensure and have both accepted report on the patient ???

[Tgeagle83]

From my understanding, it will ultimately go back on the RN. Just like everything they will of course be reprimanded..but as the RN with the same patients as them, you are responsible

[S.I.C.]

Hi,

In my opinion LPN and RN should both be accountable for their actions.  LPN should fulfill her responsibilities as RN does.  Coming to nursing care, there is no excuse for not doing a good job.  We are dealing with human lives, and we are paid for that purpose.  May each of them should be accountable differently, but there is not reason to let LPN go free like that.

The reprimand could mild such as a verbal or written warning, but it is necessary so that the same mistake will not occur again. If LPN goes free, then she/he will relax as long there an RN to cover or to be accountable for her/his actions.

[chare]

Can the LPN perform wound care independently on her/his license?  If so, then he/she is  responsible for completion.  If it was delegated by the RN, then he/she is also responsible for not following up and ensuring the task was completed.

[S.I.C.]

Hi, Chare,

Thank you very much for sharing.

I strongly agree with you that the RN is accountable for actions. If LPN has accepted the responsibility, whether it is within her horizon of her license or not, she has the duty to inform the RN why she cannot complete the wound care. If she doesn't, she is also irresponsible health care provider, and should face consequences of her actions. 

In any job, to complete a task is very important whether dependent or independent, and reporting that in one way or another you cannot complete the task, is also very important.  Much more on dealing human lives.

[S.I.C.]

Hi, Chare,

Maybe I am talking about nursing accountability without proper documentation and based on my feelings.  I will have to research more on the current knowledge and research regarding nursing accountability.

I base my explanation on the basis both LPN and RN are health care providers with different types of nursing licenses, and who should basically feel that they should not play with human life.

Thank you very much.