LPN Delegation and Supervision for UAP 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following is an example of appropriate ongoing supervision of a UAP?
- Checking in with the UAP only at the end of the shift
- Periodically observing the UAP performing delegated tasks (Correct answer)
- Allowing the UAP to self-supervise if experienced
- Relying solely on the UAP's verbal reports of task completion
Correct answer: Periodically observing the UAP performing delegated tasks
Periodic direct observation ensures delegated tasks are performed correctly and safely.
Question 2: A UAP asks the LPN if they can change a patient's sterile wound dressing because the nurse is busy. The LPN should:
- Allow the UAP to do it since the patient needs it now
- Perform the dressing change themselves or find another licensed nurse (Correct answer)
- Teach the UAP the sterile technique and then delegate
- Ask the UAP to cover the wound temporarily until later
Correct answer: Perform the dressing change themselves or find another licensed nurse
Sterile wound dressing changes require clinical judgment and are outside the UAP's scope of practice.
Question 3: What is the most important consideration when determining the complexity of a task to delegate to a UAP?
- The UAP's seniority and years of experience on the unit
- Whether the task requires assessment, judgment, or specialized skill (Correct answer)
- The patient's preference for who provides care
- How busy the LPN is during the current shift
Correct answer: Whether the task requires assessment, judgment, or specialized skill
Tasks requiring clinical assessment or judgment are outside the UAP's scope regardless of experience.
Question 4: A UAP informs the LPN that a patient is crying and upset. What is the LPN's best response?
- Tell the UAP to provide comfort and report back later
- Go to the patient to assess and address the situation (Correct answer)
- Ask the UAP to contact the patient's family
- Document the report and address it at the next assessment
Correct answer: Go to the patient to assess and address the situation
Emotional distress may indicate a clinical or psychosocial need that requires the LPN's direct assessment.
Question 5: Which of the following tasks may the LPN delegate to a UAP in a long-term care facility?
- Administering a scheduled oral medication
- Measuring and recording urinary output (Correct answer)
- Inserting a urinary catheter
- Assessing a new pressure injury
Correct answer: Measuring and recording urinary output
Measuring and recording output is a routine observational task within the UAP's scope.
Question 6: The LPN delegates perineal care to a UAP. The patient is confused and resistive. What should the UAP do?
- Restrain the patient gently and complete the care
- Stop the task and immediately inform the LPN (Correct answer)
- Ask a family member to hold the patient still
- Attempt to redirect and try again independently
Correct answer: Stop the task and immediately inform the LPN
A resistive confused patient may need a different approach or assessment, requiring the LPN's involvement.
Question 7: Which right of delegation requires the LPN to give the UAP clear instructions about what to do and report?
- Right person
- Right direction and communication (Correct answer)
- Right supervision
- Right task
Correct answer: Right direction and communication
The 'right direction and communication' ensures the UAP understands exactly what to do and what changes to report.
LPN Delegation and Supervision for UAP 3
Which of the following is an example of appropriate ongoing supervision of a UAP?