Which task can the LPN safely delegate to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

LPN delegation to uap:

The delegation framework: The LPN may delegate TASKS (not nursing judgment) to UAPs within the UAP's competency, in the appropriate setting, with proper supervision.

Appropriate to delegate: Vital signs on stable patients; height/weight; routine ADL assistance (bathing, dressing, hygiene); bed making; transport (stable patients); simple specimen collection; I&O measurement; non-invasive hygiene procedures.

Should not delegate: Initial assessments; unstable patients; invasive procedures; medication administration; tasks requiring nursing judgment or clinical decision-making.

Catheter insertion: LPN can perform catheter insertion in most states; UAP generally cannot.

Oral medications: LPN tasks; not delegatable to UAP.

Remember the 5 rights of delegation: Right task; right circumstances; right person; right direction/communication; right supervision.

LPN supervision responsibility: Even after delegating, the LPN remains responsible for the outcome — monitor the UAP's performance and patient response.