Question

A patient has arrived for a scheduled hemodialysis session. Which nursing action is appropriate for the registered nurse (RN) to delegate to a dialysis technician?

A. Teach the patient about fluid restrictions.
B. Check blood pressure before starting dialysis.
C. Assess for causes of an increase in predialysis weight.
D. Determine the ultrafiltration rate for the hemodialysis.

Answer 1

A dialysis technician can check a patient's blood pressure before starting dialysis, which is within their scope of practice under the supervision of a registered nurse.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options provided, the most appropriate nursing action that can be delegated to a dialysis technician is B. Check blood pressure before starting dialysis. Dialysis technicians are trained to review patient history, assist with the dialysis treatment process, and take and report a patient's vital signs under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. Tasks such as teaching patients about fluid restrictions, assessing causes for weight changes, and determining ultrafiltration rates are within the scope of practice for a registered nurse and typically require a higher level of clinical judgment and expertise.