Final answer:
The nurse should assign the UAP to provide basic hygiene care to all clients on the unit.
Step-by-step explanation:
When two people call in sick on the medical-surgical unit and there is no additional help available, the nurse should assign certain activities to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to ensure efficient patient care. In this situation, the nurse can assign the UAP to provide basic hygiene care to all clients on the unit. This includes assisting with activities such as bathing, grooming, and toileting.