The nurse is providing education to a student nurse regarding delegation. What tasks would be unable to be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)? (Select all that apply)

Choice A Reason:

“N95 (personal respirator mask)” is correct because varicella (chickenpox) is an airborne disease. The N95 mask is designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, making it essential for protecting healthcare workers from inhaling infectious agents.

Choice B Reason:

“Surgical mask” is incorrect because while surgical masks provide a barrier against large respiratory droplets, they do not offer sufficient protection against airborne particles. Varicella can be transmitted through tiny airborne droplets, which necessitates the use of an N95 mask.

Choice C Reason:

“They don’t need a mask” is incorrect because healthcare workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Not wearing a mask would put the nurse at risk of contracting varicella.

Choice D Reason:

“Only the client needs a mask” is incorrect because while it is important for the client to wear a mask to reduce the spread of infectious droplets, the nurse also needs to wear an N95 mask to protect themselves from airborne transmission.

Choice A reason: Administering the medication within 90 minutes of the provider prescribing it aligns with the definition of a “NOW” order. A “NOW” order is intended to be given promptly but not as urgently as a STAT order, which requires immediate administration. This timeframe ensures that the medication is given in a timely manner to address the client’s needs without unnecessary delay.

Choice B reason: Administering the medication at specific times until directed by the provider is not appropriate for a “NOW” order. This approach is more suitable for routine or scheduled medications, where the timing is predetermined and consistent. A “NOW” order requires prompt action rather than adherence to a fixed schedule.

Choice C reason: Administering the medication at every 4-hour intervals is incorrect for a “NOW” order. This frequency is typical for PRN (as needed) medications or those requiring regular dosing intervals. A “NOW” order is a one-time directive that necessitates timely administration soon after the order is given.

Choice D reason: Administering the medication whenever the client reports specific manifestations, such as pain, is characteristic of PRN orders. PRN orders are given based on the client’s symptoms and needs at the time. A “NOW” order, however, is a one-time order that should be carried out promptly, regardless of the client’s immediate symptoms.