A nurse is caring for a 72-year-old client whose spouse died unexpectedly two days ago. The client is tearful and says, "I don't know how I'm going to live without him." Which of the following is the most therapeutic response by the nurse?

Choice A reason: Putting on gloves before the gown is incorrect because gloves must cover the cuff of the gown to ensure a proper barrier.

Choice B reason: The correct sequence is gown first, then mask, then goggles or face shield, and finally gloves. This order ensures maximum protection and prevents contamination during patient care.

Choice C reason: Gloves should be donned last, not immediately after the gown. This option disrupts the protective sequence.

Choice D reason: Mask should not be donned before the gown. The gown establishes the primary barrier, followed by respiratory and eye protection, then gloves.

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.