Nurse manager of med-surg unit is assigning care responsibilities for oncoming shift. Client is awaiting transfer back to unit from PACU following thoracic surgery. To which staff member should nurse assign to this client?

The correct answer is B: RN. The Registered Nurse (RN) is the most appropriate staff member to care for the client awaiting transfer from PACU following thoracic surgery. RNs have the education, training, and scope of practice to assess, monitor, and provide specialized care for post-surgical patients. They can recognize and manage potential complications, administer medications, and coordinate the client's care effectively. Assigning the charge nurse (A) may compromise the overall management of the unit. LPNs (C) have a more limited scope of practice and may not have the necessary skills for post-surgical care. Assistive personnel (D) are not qualified to provide the level of care required for a client following thoracic surgery.