Which task is suitable for the nurse to delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) on a medical-surgical unit?

The task of assisting a client who is 1 day post hip fracture to the bathroom is appropriate to delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) because it involves basic support measures that contribute to patient comfort and mobility without requiring specialized nursing judgment or clinical skills.

UAP can assist clients with activities of daily living, such as toileting, which involves basic observation but does not necessitate deep clinical evaluation or intervention. At this stage post-surgery, the client may need assistance to ensure safety and prevent falls while ambulating. Delegating this task allows nurses to focus on more complex responsibilities that require their clinical expertise.

Other tasks listed, such as applying a collagenase dressing to a pressure ulcer or feeding a client through a gastrostomy tube, involve specific skills, clinical judgment, and assessment that fall within the scope of practice of a licensed nurse. Elevating the head of the bed before feedings, while a routine task, may also involve considerations of patient safety and comfort that a UAP might not adequately assess without the oversight of a nurse. Therefore, the chosen task aligns with the role of UAP and respects the limitations of their training.