Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses Practice Exam

According to the Standards of Nursing Practice, Board Rule 217.11, the LVN scope of practice includes which of the following activities related to care plans?

1. Initiate the development of a comprehensive nursing care plan independently.

2. May not document on the nursing care plan.

3. Participate in the modification and development of the nursing care plan.

4. Review the nursing care plan only if directed to do so by the physician.

The correct answer is: Initiate the development of a comprehensive nursing care plan independently.

The correct answer regarding the LVN scope of practice in relation to care plans is that they can participate in the modification and development of the nursing care plan. According to the standards set by the Texas Board of Nursing under Rule 217.11, Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) are permitted to be involved in the nursing care plan process, specifically in collaborating with other nursing team members and contributing insights based on their observations and patient interactions. While LVNs may not independently initiate a comprehensive nursing care plan—that task is reserved for registered nurses—they play a critical role in adapting and modifying existing care plans to ensure that patient needs are adequately met. This collaboration is essential in providing holistic and tailored care, as LVNs can contribute valuable information about patients' conditions and responses to treatment. Furthermore, it is incorrect to state that LVNs cannot document on the nursing care plan, as documentation is a vital aspect of patient care that falls within their responsibilities. Similarly, LVNs should not be limited to reviewing the care plan only upon a physician's direction; they should have the ability and responsibility to engage with the care plan actively.