Which task can the registered nurse (RN) safely delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

Assisting a 2-day postoperative hip arthroplasty client with morning care is an appropriate task for delegation to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). This activity typically involves basic care tasks such as helping the patient with hygiene, dressing, and mobility, which fall within the scope of practice for UAP.

Unlicensed assistive personnel can help patients perform daily living activities, and morning care is a routine task that does not require the specialized knowledge or judgement that a registered nurse possesses. The nurse can safely delegate this responsibility while remaining aware of the patient's overall condition and needs, monitoring any changes or potential complications that may arise.

In contrast, other tasks listed involve more complex skills or decision-making that require the nursing judgment of an RN. For example, collecting a urine specimen for culture and sensitivity from a client with a Foley catheter requires understanding of aseptic techniques and the implications of the results, something that is beyond UAP training. The initial change of a colostomy bag also demands assessment skills and knowledge of the stoma site that are critical for ensuring the patient's well-being, which UAP are not trained to handle. Refilling an enteral feeding container requires knowledge of the patient's specific nutritional needs and understanding of potential complications, again necess