The registered nurse (RN) is caring for a postoperative client with a Hemovac drain. Which task is inappropriate for the RN to ask the experienced unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to perform?

Question

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Although the UAP can perform procedures that require observing principles of infection control and transmission of microorganisms, the UAP should not change sterile dressings or perform drain care. That is the responsibility of the RN. (Options B, C, and D) When caring for a client with a closed-wound drainage Hemovac device, emptying and compressing the Hemovac drainage device to reestablish negative pressure and measuring and recording the drainage output are tasks that can be delegated to an experienced UAP. Hemovac The RN can safely delegate these tasks because the knowledge, skill, and competency of the UAP has been established and the tasks and time frames are clearly defined. Measuring intake and output from drainage devices (eg, Foley, Hemovac, Jackson-Pratt), documenting in the electronic medical record in the place designated for the UAP, observing infection control principles, and maintaining asepsis while providing client care are within the UAP's scope of practice. Educational objective: The RN is responsible for assessing and evaluating the client's wound and wound drainage and maintaining the Hemovac drainage device, including drain site care. These tasks involve use of the nursing process and require clinical judgment, so they cannot be delegated to the UAP.

The Registered Nurse (RN) Is Caring for a Postoperative Client