Which nursing intervention for a mechanically ventilated patient can be delegated to an experienced licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/VN)?

The delegation of nursing tasks must consider the complexity of the procedures and the level of training required to perform them safely. In this scenario, inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is a task that can be performed by an experienced licensed practical nurse (LPN/VN). In many healthcare settings, LPNs/VNs are trained and authorized to conduct catheterizations, which involves relating to patient comfort and maintaining a sterile technique.

The other options involve more complex assessments and monitoring tasks that require a higher level of clinical judgment and skills typically associated with registered nurses (RNs). For instance, assessing breath sounds every hour requires the ability to interpret findings and possibly make care decisions based on those results. Monitoring central venous pressures involves understanding hemodynamic status and may need immediate response to abnormal findings. Placing a patient in the prone position is a procedure that requires careful consideration of the patient's overall condition and potential complications, usually necessitating an RN's oversight.

Therefore, the task of inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is appropriate to delegate to an experienced LPN/VN, given their education and skill set in performing such tasks.