A new LPN is assigning tasks to the UAP (unlicensed assistive personnel). Which of the following is appropriate to assign to the UAP?
Assess the IV site of the client in bed number 1 for any signs of redness or swelling.
Give a bed bath to a patient who had a seizure this morning.
Help the client in bed number 2 to ambulate to the bathroom every 2 hours.
Explain to the client in bed number 3 why they can’t eat before surgery.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: This task is inappropriate for a UAP because assessing an IV site requires clinical judgment and knowledge of complications such as phlebitis, infiltration, or infection. Assessment is a nursing responsibility and cannot be delegated to unlicensed personnel. UAPs may observe and report changes, but they cannot be assigned to formally assess or interpret findings.
Choice B reason: This task is appropriate because providing hygiene care, such as a bed bath, is within the scope of practice for UAPs. It does not require nursing judgment, and it supports patient comfort and dignity. Even though the patient had a seizure earlier, the UAP can safely perform this task under supervision, while the nurse monitors for any neurological changes. This is a routine, non-invasive activity that aligns with UAP responsibilities.
Choice C reason: Helping a client ambulate every 2 hours requires careful consideration of the patient’s condition. While UAPs can assist with ambulation, the instruction here is too rigid and lacks assessment of the patient’s tolerance, safety, or risk factors. Ambulation schedules should be individualized and based on nursing assessment. Delegating this task without specifying safety precautions could place the patient at risk of falls or injury.
Choice D reason: Explaining why a client cannot eat before surgery involves patient education, which requires nursing knowledge and professional communication. UAPs are not trained to provide preoperative teaching or explain medical rationales. This task requires a licensed nurse to ensure accurate information and address patient concerns. Delegating this to a UAP would be unsafe and outside their scope of practice.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the most appropriate response because it respects patient confidentiality and complies with HIPAA regulations. Without documented consent or approved contacts, the nurse cannot disclose any information. Acknowledging the caller’s concern while maintaining privacy ensures ethical and legal practice. This response balances empathy with professional boundaries.
Choice B reason: This response is inappropriate because it assumes that being a family member automatically grants access to patient information. HIPAA requires explicit patient consent before sharing health details, regardless of family relationships. Providing information without permission violates confidentiality and could have legal consequences.
Choice C reason: Transferring the call to the charge nurse does not solve the issue because the charge nurse is also bound by the same confidentiality rules. Without documented consent, no nurse can provide updates. This response may appear helpful but ultimately does not address the legal and ethical requirement to protect patient privacy.
Choice D reason: This response is inappropriate because it discloses the patient’s condition (“stable”) without consent. Even minimal information is considered a breach of confidentiality. Additionally, promising to inform the patient of the call may create false expectations for the caller. This violates professional standards and patient rights.
Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Instructing the patient to push off the locked wheelchair provides stability and safety during transfer. Locking the wheelchair prevents movement and reduces fall risk.
Choice B reason: Holding the patient away from the nurse’s uniform is not a therapeutic or safety-based action. The focus should be on secure handling, not uniform contact.
Choice C reason: Securing the gait belt just below the patient’s hips ensures proper leverage and support during transfer. It allows the nurse to guide movement safely and reduces strain on both patient and caregiver.
Choice D reason: Raising the bed above the nurse’s waist increases risk of injury to the nurse and makes transfer unsafe. The bed should be adjusted to a safe height for both patient and caregiver.
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