Quality Principles for Practical Nursing

This section explains quality improvement principles tailored to practical nursing. LPNs play a key role in identifying safety concerns, reporting incidents, and participating in small improvement cycles that enhance patient care. Quality improvement methods such as plan do study act cycles help teams test small changes in workflow and measure their impact. Unit metrics such as timely vital sign documentation, accurate medication administration, and adherence to infection prevention practices help track performance. LPNs contribute to these efforts by providing frontline insights, participating in audits, and supporting consistent application of protocols.

Routine Quality Tasks

This section describes routine quality tasks that LPNs support in clinical units. Documentation audits help ensure that nursing notes, vital signs, and patient assessments are complete and accurate. In settings where LPNs are authorized, IV site checks help identify early signs of infiltration or infection. Patient education audits track whether patients receive instructions on medications, mobility, or wound care. LPNs also assist with equipment checks, supply readiness, and environmental safety rounds. These tasks help maintain a safe environment and support regulatory compliance.

Responding to Incidents

This section explains how LPNs respond to clinical incidents. When an incident occurs, LPNs must document the event clearly, including observations, actions taken, and patient response. Incidents must be escalated promptly to clinical leadership for review. LPNs may participate in debriefs to identify contributing factors and propose improvements. Contributing to corrective actions helps strengthen unit safety culture and supports continuous improvement.