Final answer:
Nursing assistants in dialysis centers work under the supervision of registered nurses to review patient history, respond to needs, and monitor treatment. They prepare equipment for sterile procedures and take vital signs to ensure patient safety during treatment. Their roles are crucial for patient care and comfort.
Step-by-step explanation:
Roles of a Nursing Assistant under Direct Supervision of a Registered Nurse
Nursing assistants play a critical role in the healthcare team, especially those who focus on dialysis treatments. Under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, their duties include the preparation of equipment and solutions to support accurate and sterile procedures necessary for effective patient treatment. They are responsible for reviewing patient history, assessing and responding to patient needs before and during dialysis treatment, and monitoring the patient throughout the process.
Additionally, nursing assistants are tasked with taking and reporting vital signs, which are crucial for keeping track of the patient's condition during the dialysis session. This involves measuring blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiratory rate, amongst other things. Their role ensures treatment goes smoothly and safely, and it is essential for both the physical and emotional comfort of the patient during a procedure that can be both lengthy and stressful.
In regard to the broader clinical setting, nursing assistants often participate in care team meetings. An example of this could be a situation where the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional review aloud key concerns for the recovery and care of the patient. Nursing assistants might not directly contribute to such high-level clinical discussions, but they do play a vital role in implementing recovery and care plans post-treatment, ensuring seamless continuity of care.