Which role is typically held by a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) primarily functions by providing direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians. This role encompasses a variety of tasks such as administering medications, dressing wounds, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with daily living activities for patients. The LPN is trained to understand basic nursing principles and practices but adheres to the delegated responsibilities set by higher-ranking healthcare professionals. This ensures that patient care is both effective and safe within the healthcare facility's protocols.

In contrast, leading surgical teams requires advanced skills and training typically associated with roles such as surgeons or anesthesiologists, not LPNs. Conducting diagnostic tests independently is beyond the scope of practice for an LPN, as these activities require specialized training and certification usually held by RNs or medical technicians. Similarly, managing healthcare facilities is typically the responsibility of healthcare administrators or managers rather than LPNs, whose primary focus is patient care rather than overarching administrative functions.