Question

The nurse working in a skilled nursing facility is considering the list of assigned clients and their nursing needs. Which nursing task can be safely delegated to the unlicensed assistant?

1) Administering medication
2) Performing wound dressing
3) Providing patient education
4) Assisting with activities of daily living

Answer 1

The nursing task that can be safely delegated to an unlicensed assistant is assisting with activities of daily living. Administering medication, performing wound dressing, and providing patient education require specific nursing knowledge and cannot be delegated.

Step-by-step explanation:

In determining which tasks can be safely delegated to an unlicensed assistant in a skilled nursing facility, it's important to consider the level of training and the scope of practice for unlicensed personnel. Unlicensed assistants typically work under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, focusing on tasks that do not require the specialized training of a nurse. Therefore, of the nursing tasks listed:

1. Administering medication
2. Performing wound dressing
3. Providing patient education
4. Assisting with activities of daily living

Only item 4 can be safely delegated to an unlicensed assistant. While tasks such as administering medication and performing wound dressing require specific nursing knowledge and skills, assisting with activities of daily living is within the scope of unlicensed personnel. Such assistance may include helping with feeding, bathing, and ambulation, which do not necessitate specialized nursing knowledge but do require attention to the patient's comfort and safety.