The registered nurse (RN) is working with unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). Which task can the RN safely delegate to the UAP?

Question

The registered nurse (RN) is working with unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP).  Which task can the RN safely delegate to the UAP?

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11ecbb05_cb90_fcde_b433_1da873e1ee99_MD0009_00 The RN should always observe the 5 rights of delegation when considering appropriate task assignments. Bathing along with mouth and skin care are standardized, routine procedures. Therefore, the RN can delegate to the UAP the task of assisting the 2-day postoperative client with morning care. A client who is 2-days postoperative hip arthroplasty is usually stable, but the nurse can reassess the delegated tasks if the client's condition changes. (Option B) Specimen collection from a Foley catheter is considered a sterile procedure. It involves accessing a sterile collection port, but there is a risk of introducing bacteria into the closed drainage system if done improperly. However, the UAP or even the client may collect a clean-catch or midstream urine specimen when appropriate instructions are given. (Option C) Changing the colostomy bag for a client with an established stoma (not fresh) can be delegated by the RN to the UAP. However, the RN must first assess the appearance and function of the new colostomy stoma during the initial bag change. This requires nursing knowledge and judgment. The RN is also responsible for providing both initial client education regarding the new colostomy and emotional support as many clients have difficulty adjusting to the change in body image. (Option D) The RN does not delegate care related to enteral feedings to the UAP as this requires professional nursing skills regarding abdominal and placement assessment, aspiration of residual volumes, and irrigation. Educational objective: The UAP with the skills and knowledge can perform standardized procedures (eg, assisting a client with morning care, emptying a colostomy bag in a client with an established stoma). However, UAP are not responsible for sterile procedures, enteral feedings, or performing standardized procedures in an unstable client as these require the RN's knowledge, judgment, and skill.

The Registered Nurse (RN) Is Working with Unlicensed Assistive Personnel