Who typically performs tasks within a more limited scope than an RN?

The role of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) involves performing nursing tasks that are more limited in scope compared to those carried out by a Registered Nurse (RN). LPNs are trained to provide basic patient care, administer medications, and assist with routine medical procedures under the supervision of an RN or doctor. Their training and job responsibilities are not as comprehensive as those of RNs, who have a broader scope of practice that includes assessment, diagnosis, and the ability to create comprehensive care plans.

In contrast, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) primarily assists with daily living activities and provides basic care but operates within an even more restricted role than an LPN. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses with the ability to provide primary and specialty care, often including the ability to diagnose and prescribe medications, which is beyond the scope of LPNs. Registered Social Workers (RSW) focus on social services and mental health support, and do not perform medical tasks, making their role vastly different from that of a nurse.

This context helps clarify why the Licensed Practical Nurse is the correct choice, as it accurately reflects a position within the healthcare team that operates under a more limited scope than that of a Registered Nurse.