Dictionary

Nursing practice

Delegation, prioritization, scope of practice and the working words of the profession.

leading zeroA zero written before the decimal point of a number less than one, as in 0.5 mg.

least restrictive interventionThe rule of choosing the measure that limits a client's freedom the least while still keeping everyone safe.

LGBTQIA+A short form for sexual and gender minority groups: L lesbian, G gay, B bisexual, T transgender, Q queer or questioning, I intersex, A asexual, + others.

licensed practical nurseA nurse who has passed the NCLEX-PN and is licensed to give basic nursing care under an RN or other provider.

licensureThe granting of a license by a government body that gives a person legal permission to practice a profession.

life spanThe whole length of a person's life, from conception or birth to death.

lifestyleThe way a person lives day to day, including eating, activity, sleep, smoking, alcohol use and stress.

limited English proficiencyLimited ability to read, speak, write or understand English, for a person whose main language is another one.

living willA written legal document that says which medical treatments a person does or does not want if they cannot speak for themselves.

long-term careOngoing help with health and daily living for people who cannot fully care for themselves over a long time.

long-term care facilityA place where people who cannot fully care for themselves live and receive ongoing care, often for months or years.

low-sodium dietAn eating plan that limits salt and other sources of sodium.