Which group is considered part of the nursing team?

The correct answer includes licensed practical nurses and registered nurses because both of these groups are integral members of the nursing team, working collaboratively to provide patient care. Registered nurses (RNs) possess advanced education and training, enabling them to perform comprehensive assessments, develop care plans, and execute complex nursing interventions. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), on the other hand, provide essential support to RNs, performing specific patient care tasks under their supervision. Together, they are responsible for a wide range of clinical and educational duties, ensuring high-quality care within the healthcare system.

In contrast to other options, while surgeons and anesthesiologists are healthcare providers, they belong to different professional categories and do not make up the nursing team. Nursing assistants and occupational therapists also play key roles in patient care but do not fall under the nursing team in the same way that LPNs and RNs do. Nurse practitioners, although they are advanced practice registered nurses, represent only a subset of the nursing profession rather than the entire nursing team. Thus, the inclusion of LPNs and RNs is what substantiates the correct answer, as they both represent essential roles within the nursing structure.