Which items on the care plan are appropriate for an LPN to perform for a patient with congestive heart failure on digoxin?

• A. Administer intravenous digoxin
• B. Formulate nursing diagnoses
• C. Monitor vitals and ambulate
• D. Administer intravenous fluids

Answer: (C)

Understanding what an LPN can safely do for a patient with CHF on digoxin hinges on scope of practice and safety. Monitoring vital signs and assisting with ambulation fits the LPN role because it involves routine, ongoing assessment of the patient’s status and supporting mobility to improve circulation and functional tolerance. Regular vitals help detect early signs of instability or digoxin-related effects, such as bradycardia or hypotension, and the LPN can observe how the patient responds to activity, reporting changes promptly to the RN.

Administering intravenous digoxin is a high-risk task that typically requires RN oversight due to the need for careful IV administration, infusion monitoring, and rapid response to potential adverse effects. Administering intravenous fluids is generally inappropriate in congestive heart failure without explicit orders and close supervision, since fluid management is a delicate balance in this condition. Formulating nursing diagnoses is usually the responsibility of the RN. So, the most appropriate task for the LPN in this scenario is to monitor vitals and assist with ambulation.