Which task should a nurse delegate to an unlicensed assistive personnel?

Delegating tasks to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) involves assigning responsibilities that are appropriate for their scope of practice and training. Assisting with client ambulation is a fundamental task that falls within the UAP's role. This responsibility does not require specialized nursing knowledge or clinical judgment and focuses on the support of the patient's mobility.

Ambulation is crucial for maintaining patient mobility, preventing complications related to immobility, and promoting recovery. A UAP is trained to assist patients with walking safely, ensuring that they maintain balance and provide necessary support. This allows nurses to focus on more complex care needs that require critical thinking and professional judgment.

The other tasks involve skilled nursing responsibilities, such as evaluating medication regimens, updating a physician on patient status, and administering IV fluids. These tasks necessitate specialized knowledge, assessment skills, and the ability to interpret patient responses, which are beyond the capabilities of UAP. Therefore, assisting with client ambulation is the most suitable task to delegate in this context, allowing for effective teamwork and optimal care delivery.