An RN is delegating a task to an unlicensed assistive personnel. Which of the following scenarios best demonstrates appropriate delegation?
"Mr. G's lunch tray should arrive in 30 minutes. Before you deliver his meal tray, please reinforce the information that the diabetes educator went over with him earlier this morning. If necessary, re-teach him to regulate his intake of carbohydrates. Report to me when you are finished."
"Mr. G in Room 258 finished taking a shower and needs help getting back to bed. Help him as soon as possible. Please ensure he wears non-slip socks before ambulating. Once you have assisted him back to bed, notify me so I can assess him."
"Mr. G just called and is complaining of dizziness. Please see him as soon as possible and feel his pulse. If you suspect he is hypoglycemic, give him orange juice then check his blood sugar. When you are done, report to me your findings."
"Mr. G requests assistance to the bathroom. Please help him as soon as possible. I understand you are new and are uncomfortable with this task, but the best way to learn is to try on your own. When you are done, let me know how it went."
The Correct Answer is B
A. This scenario involves the UNP providing education and re-teaching, which is beyond their scope of practice. Delegation should involve tasks that are within the UNP's competency.
B. This scenario appropriately delegates a task that is within the UNP's role, providing clear instructions and ensuring safety with non-slip socks. It maintains accountability by requiring a report afterward.
C. This scenario requires assessment and nursing judgment, which are tasks that should not be delegated to UNP, as they need to be performed by a licensed nurse.
D. This scenario suggests a lack of support and guidance for a new employee, which is not appropriate. Delegation should provide clear instructions and ensure safety rather than placing the burden of learning on the UNP without proper support.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This option suggests that the RN is solely responsible and accountable, which is not accurate in a team setting where oversight exists.
B. This option incorrectly places accountability solely with the charge nurse, whereas the RN also has accountability for the care provided to their assigned patients.
C. The RN assumes accountability for the specific tasks assigned to them while understanding that overall responsibility for patient safety and outcomes remains with the charge nurse. This reflects the collaborative nature of nursing practice.
D. This option suggests that the RN has neither responsibility nor accountability, which contradicts the professional role of a nurse who must always maintain a level of accountability for their actions and decisions regarding patient care.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The PSDA ensures patients understand their rights but does not authorize family members to alter a living will when the patient is incapacitated.
B. A durable power of attorney can make healthcare decisions but cannot simply annul the living will without considering the patient's stated wishes.
C. Family members cannot change a living will arbitrarily, especially when the client is unconscious; the living will conveys the client's predetermined preferences.
D. The living will is a legal document that outlines the client's desires regarding lifesaving measures and must be followed, even if the client is unconscious.