Final answer:
Nursing assistive personnel (NAP) may assist with basic care activities like repositioning patients and applying barrier creams to alleviate pressure in those with pressure ulcers. Advanced tasks such as wound irrigation or assessing additional risks fall under the responsibilities of licensed healthcare professionals.
Step-by-step explanation:
In caring for a patient with pressure ulcers, nursing assistive personnel (NAP) can be delegated certain tasks under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. Appropriate tasks for a NAP would include basic care activities such as repositioning the patient to alleviate pressure, applying barrier creams, and potentially assisting with an elastic bandage application. However, tasks that require more advanced clinical judgment and skills, such as performing wound irrigation, implementing negative-pressure wound therapy, and assessing the patient for the risk of additional pressure ulcers, must be performed by a nurse or another licensed healthcare professional.
It is important for NAPs to focus on providing support in the areas they are trained for, such as monitoring a patient's vital signs and preparing solutions and equipment to ensure accurate and sterile procedures. Regular patient repositioning is vital in preventing the worsening of bedsores and can significantly contribute to the overall care and recovery of the patient while preserving skin integrity and promoting better blood flow.