What tasks can a nurse delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel?

Delegating tasks to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) requires an understanding of the scope of practice and the competencies of each role within the healthcare team. Measuring wound drainage from a bulb drain and documenting it is a fundamental task that falls within the typical responsibilities of UAP. This task does not require critical thinking or clinical judgment, which are essential for assessing conditions and determining interventions, thereby making it suitable for delegation.

UAP can perform tasks that focus on basic care needs and non-invasive procedures, such as measuring and reporting data related to a patient's condition, as long as it fits within their training and the protocols of the facility. Ensuring proper documentation is also vital, as it allows for continuity of care and accurate communication among healthcare providers.

Other tasks mentioned, such as assisting with ambulation after a procedure, monitoring IV sites for complications, and verifying blood products, involve a higher level of assessment and clinical decision-making. These tasks require the judgment and expertise of a registered nurse to ensure patient safety and appropriate interventions, thus making them unsuitable for delegation to UAP.