Which client requires a licensed nurse, thus is not suitable for UAP assignment?

Which client requires a licensed nurse, thus is not suitable for UAP assignment?

• A. A client needing a bladder scan
• B. A client requiring routine ambulation
• C. A client in a bowel-management program needing a rectal suppository
• D. A client who needs hygiene care

Answer: (C)

The client who is in a bowel-management program and needs a rectal suppository requires a licensed nurse for this task because it involves a more complex level of assessment, judgment, and intervention. Administering a rectal suppository is not a routine task and requires the nurse to assess the client's condition, understand indications or contraindications, and respond appropriately to any complications or adverse reactions that may arise. This activity demands knowledge of anatomy, potential complications from the procedure, and the ability to evaluate the client's response, which are beyond the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). In contrast, tasks such as conducting a bladder scan or assisting with hygiene care involve more straightforward procedures that can be delegated to UAP, as they do not require the same level of clinical judgment or assessment. Routine ambulation can also be aided by UAP under supervision, as it typically does not involve complex interventions or assessments. Therefore, the nature of the bowel intervention specifically necessitates the expertise of a licensed nurse, making it unsuitable for UAP assignment.

The client who is in a bowel-management program and needs a rectal suppository requires a licensed nurse for this task because it involves a more complex level of assessment, judgment, and intervention. Administering a rectal suppository is not a routine task and requires the nurse to assess the client's condition, understand indications or contraindications, and respond appropriately to any complications or adverse reactions that may arise. This activity demands knowledge of anatomy, potential complications from the procedure, and the ability to evaluate the client's response, which are beyond the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP).

In contrast, tasks such as conducting a bladder scan or assisting with hygiene care involve more straightforward procedures that can be delegated to UAP, as they do not require the same level of clinical judgment or assessment. Routine ambulation can also be aided by UAP under supervision, as it typically does not involve complex interventions or assessments. Therefore, the nature of the bowel intervention specifically necessitates the expertise of a licensed nurse, making it unsuitable for UAP assignment.