Fundamentals of Nursing Q 484
In caring for clients with pain and discomfort, which task is most appropriate to delegate to the nursing assistant?
A. Assist the client with preparation of a sitz bath.
B. Monitor the client for signs of discomfort while ambulating.
C. Coach the client to deep breathe during painful procedures.
D. Evaluate relief after applying a cold application.
Correct Answer: A. Assist the client with preparation of a sitz bath.
The nursing assistant is able to assist the client with hygiene issues and knows the principles of safety and comfort for this procedure. Proper and appropriate assignments facilitate quality care. Improper and inappropriate assignments can lead to poor quality of care, disappointing outcomes of care, the jeopardization of client safety, and even legal consequences. Monitoring the client, teaching techniques, and evaluating outcomes are nursing responsibilities.
Option B: Monitoring the client for signs of discomfort while ambulating is a nursing responsibility. When a registered nurse delegates aspects of patient care to a licensed practical nurse that are outside of the scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse, the client is in potential physical and/or psychological jeopardy because this delegated task, which is outside of the scope of practice for this licensed practical nurse, is something that this nurse was not prepared and educated to perform.
Option C: Coaching the client to deep breathe during painful procedures is a nursing responsibility. The nurse who delegates aspects of care to other members of the nursing team must balance the needs of the client with the abilities of those to which the nurse is delegating tasks and aspects of care, among other things such as the scopes of practice and the policies and procedures within the particular healthcare facility.
Option D: Evaluation of relief after applying a cold application is a nursing responsibility. The staff members’ levels of education, knowledge, past experiences, skills, abilities, and competencies are also evaluated and matched with the needs of all of the patients in the group of patients that will be cared for.