What task can a nurse appropriately delegate to an unlicensed assistive personnel?

Delegating tasks to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) requires careful consideration of the complexity and requirements of the task being assigned. Providing perineal care around a catheter fits within the scope of practice for UAP because it is a routine and non-invasive procedure that doesn't require nursing judgment or assessment skills.

This task also aligns with the UAP's role, which typically includes assisting with activities of daily living and basic personal care. Such tasks can be performed safely and effectively by UAP, allowing licensed nurses to focus on more complex duties that require clinical assessment and critical thinking.

In contrast, evaluating the patency of a medical device, assessing vital signs of critical patients, and managing wound care for complex injuries all require a level of clinical judgment, knowledge, and assessment skills that UAP do not possess. These activities are integral to a nurse's responsibilities and involve significant decision-making regarding patient care that goes beyond the capabilities of unlicensed personnel.