A nurse is delegating tasks to an assistive personnel (AP). For which of the following clients should the nurse have the AP measure vital signs?

Choice A reason: A new onset of weakness requires nursing assessment because it could indicate an acute change in condition such as stroke, electrolyte imbalance, or infection. Delegating vital signs in this case would be unsafe, as the nurse must perform a thorough assessment and determine appropriate interventions. Choice B reason: A client requesting pain medication 2 days after surgery is stable enough for the AP to measure vital signs. This task is appropriate to delegate because the nurse can then use the vital signs to evaluate the client’s status before administering pain medication. The nurse retains responsibility for interpreting the results and deciding on medication administration, but the AP can safely collect the data. Choice C reason: A new onset of chest pain is a potentially life-threatening emergency that requires immediate nursing assessment and intervention. Delegating vital signs in this situation would delay critical care. The nurse must personally assess the client, obtain vital signs, and initiate emergency protocols if necessary. Choice D reason: A client transferring to the intensive care unit is unstable and requires close monitoring. The nurse must perform a comprehensive assessment and obtain vital signs themselves to ensure accurate evaluation before and during transfer. Delegating this task would be inappropriate because of the client’s critical condition.