In providing care to a client immediately following a tonic-clonic seizure, which activity is best for the practical nurse (PN) to assign to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) working with the PN?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Perform neurologic checks: Neurologic assessments require clinical judgment and interpretation of findings, which are responsibilities of licensed nursing personnel. The UAP cannot independently perform these assessments. B. Perform oral suctioning: Suctioning is a skilled, potentially invasive procedure requiring assessment of airway patency and client response. It must be performed by licensed staff, not delegated to the UAP. C. Place client in a recovery lateral position: Positioning the client on their side after a seizure is a safe, non-invasive intervention that helps maintain airway patency and prevent aspiration. This task can be appropriately delegated to the UAP under the PN’s supervision. D. Report the seizure to healthcare provider: Communication with the provider involves clinical judgment and interpretation of the event. The PN is responsible for reporting detailed clinical information and cannot delegate this task to the UAP.