The charge nurse is making shift assignments on a pediatric oncology unit. Which delegation or assignment would be most appropriate.

Choice A rationale

Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP) are generally not permitted to perform invasive procedures or tasks that require specialized nursing knowledge, sterile technique, or clinical judgment, such as accessing or drawing blood from a central venous catheter. This procedure carries risks of infection and occlusion, requiring a licensed nurse.

Choice B rationale

Counseling, patient education, and support group referrals for complex medical conditions like leukemia require the specialized knowledge and judgment of a Registered Nurse (RN). A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) may reinforce teaching but initiating contact and providing detailed support information is outside their typical scope of practice for an oncology patient.

Choice C rationale

Administration of chemotherapeutic agents is a high-risk intervention that requires specialized certification and extensive training due to the potent nature of the drugs and the serious potential for adverse effects. This task is most appropriate for a chemotherapy-certified Registered Nurse to ensure patient safety and adherence to strict protocols.

Choice D rationale

A dietitian's role is to assess and manage nutritional status. Checking meal trays for intake is a routine assessment that can be completed by any member of the care team, including a UAP or nurse. However, the primary responsibility for complex nutritional assessment belongs to the dietitian, making this a fitting assignment for them.