Nursing Prioritization Delegation Assignment Q 47
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis. Which action should you delegate to the nursing assistant? Select all that apply.
A. Assess for indicators of fluid imbalance.
B. Review fingerstick glucose results every hour.
C. Measure vital signs every 15 minutes.
D. Document intake and output every hour.
Correct Answer: C and D
A well-trained and educated nursing assistant is knowledgeable in measuring vital signs and recording intake and output. In addition to helping patients with daily tasks, CNAs spend time taking vital signs and recording information about a patient’s condition. As a result, a CNA serves as an invaluable link between a patient and the rest of their healthcare team.
Option A: RNs cannot delegate any activity including the nursing judgment that involves critical decision making. Validation competency needs to be specific to the skill and knowledge necessary to safely perform responsibilities delegated as well as to the level of the CNA to whom the procedure, skill, or activity has been delegated.
Option B: Performing fingerstick glucose checks demands further education and skill, as possessed by licensed nurses. The practice of pervasive functions of critical decisions, nursing judgment, and clinical reasoning cannot be delegated.