Who would typically be tasked with regularly assessing a client with chronic asthma in an inpatient unit?

The registered nurse (RN) is typically the healthcare professional responsible for regularly assessing a client with chronic asthma in an inpatient unit. RNs are trained to perform comprehensive assessments, which include monitoring vital signs, lung function, and the patient's overall respiratory status. They also evaluate the effectiveness of treatments and interventions, recognize changes in the patient's condition, and make decisions based on their findings.

In an inpatient setting, the RN plays a crucial role in developing and implementing care plans tailored to each patient's needs, including those with chronic conditions like asthma. This involves not just physical assessments but also educating the patient on managing their condition, which is essential for effective ongoing care.

While licensed practical nurses, healthcare aides, and physician assistants all play supportive roles within the healthcare team, their scope of practice may limit their ability to perform in-depth assessments or manage care independently in the same way that an RN can. For instance, LPNs can provide care and assist with assessments, but they often work under the supervision of RNs. Healthcare aides typically assist with routine tasks and do not have the training to conduct thorough assessments. Physician assistants can perform evaluations and may assess patients, but RNs are generally the ones who deliver continuous and comprehensive care during a patient's stay in the hospital.