You overhear a disagreement between the charge nurse and a staff nurse about patient assignments in a public area. As a fellow nurse, what should you do to address the situation appropriately?

Assistive Personnel

Client 4: Perform prescribed testing: APs are trained to perform point-of-care testing such as blood glucose checks using a glucometer under RN supervision. This is a routine task requiring minimal clinical judgment.

Client 2: Transport client for diagnostic testing: Transporting a stable client is within the AP's role. Since the client is conscious and has no immediate instability, this task is appropriate for AP.

Client 3: Collect and label specimen: APs may collect non-sterile specimens like clean-catch urine and label them properly, especially in facilities where they are trained and authorized to do so. RN/PN ensures proper documentation.

Practical Nurse

Client 4: Perform prescribed testing: PNs can perform and interpret glucometer readings, and make clinical decisions such as reporting abnormal values to the RN.

Client 3: Administer prescribed medication: PNs are licensed to administer medications, including PO meds like acetaminophen, and monitor the client's response.

Client 1: Perform prescribed procedure: Insertion of an NG tube is a sterile, invasive procedure requiring knowledge of anatomy and technique. PNs are trained to safely perform this under provider/RN direction.

Client 4: Provide prescribed wound care: PNs are trained in wound care, including sterile dressing changes. This task requires assessment skills and sterile technique, which are within their scope.

Client 2: Transport client for diagnostic testing: PNs can also perform this task, especially if the client has more complex needs during transport (e.g., pain management, IV line monitoring).

Client 3: Collect and label specimen: While APs can perform this, PNs are also qualified to do so—especially if the collection is more complex or if the client requires additional assessment (e.g., confusion).

A: The client's SpO2 is 95%, which is within an acceptable range, so oxygen therapy is not required at this time.
B: The client has a mild fever (37.8°C), and acetaminophen is indicated to help manage fever and improve comfort.
C: There is no indication of bowel obstruction or complications that would require an NG tube for decompression at this time.
D: The wound drain has had no output in 8 hours, which could indicate a blockage or other issue, warranting evaluation by the provider.
E: There is no indication of urinary retention or issues that would necessitate the insertion of a urinary catheter at this time.