NCLEX · Delegation and Supervision

Which task should the LPN NOT delegate to a UAP?

Correct answer

Initial assessment of a newly admitted unstable client with chest pain

  1. A Bathing a stable client
  2. B Initial assessment of a newly admitted unstable client with chest pain
  3. C Measuring intake and output
  4. D Assisting with ambulation

Why this is the answer

UAPs cannot perform initial assessments — especially of unstable clients. Initial assessment requires nursing judgment to identify problems, prioritize, and determine interventions. A client with chest pain has potential life-threatening conditions (MI, PE, dissection, pneumothorax) requiring trained clinical evaluation. Other options are appropriate UAP tasks for stable clients: bathing (basic hygiene), intake/output measurement (data collection, not interpretation), ambulation assistance (with appropriate equipment and patient stability). Five Rights of Delegation applied: (1) Right TASK — assessment is not within UAP scope; (2) Right CIRCUMSTANCE — unstable client requires nurse; (3) Right PERSON — UAP doesn't have clinical training for this; (4) Right DIRECTION — even with directions, the task itself is inappropriate; (5) Right SUPERVISION — UAP wouldn't recognize subtle findings requiring intervention. NCLEX-PN delegation questions: when in doubt about delegating a task involving NEW assessments, unstable clients, teaching, or care plan development — keep it with the LPN or escalate to RN. Tasks UAPs can perform always require: clear instructions, defined expectations, stable client (usually), task within UAP training, supervision available, and the LPN remains accountable for outcomes.
Source: NCSBN NCLEX-PN, Inappropriate Delegation

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