Question

A student nurse is concerned about delegation practices and wonders why hospitals employ unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) and LPN/LVNs. The student nurse refers to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing and learns that the role of these personnel is to:

a) Perform all nursing tasks under the supervision of registered nurses
b) Substitute for registered nurses when they are on break
c) Assist in carrying out tasks that do not require the skill, judgment, or knowledge of an RN
d) Administer medications independently to patients under the RN's general supervision
e) Act as independent providers of nursing care

Answer 1

Unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) and LPN/LVNs assist registered nurses by performing tasks that do not require an RN's level of skill, often under direct RN supervision, thereby supporting the healthcare team and contributing to efficient patient care.

Step-by-step explanation:

c) Assist in carrying out tasks that do not require the skill, judgment, or knowledge of an RN

According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) and Licensed Practical Nurses/Licensed Vocational Nurses (LPN/LVNs) support registered nurses (RNs) by assisting in tasks that do not necessitate the same level of skill, judgment, or knowledge as that of an RN. These personnel often perform delegated tasks such as assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), taking vital signs, providing basic patient care, and assisting with certain procedures under the supervision or direction of an RN. However, their roles are not meant to encompass all nursing responsibilities and are limited to tasks within their scope of practice and under appropriate supervision.