The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client with a nasogastric tube. Which directions should the PN give to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

A. Notify the nurse if the nasogastric tube suction is not working correctly: Assessing and troubleshooting suction equipment is a nursing responsibility. The UAP should not be expected to determine suction function or make related judgments. B. Report any change observed in the appearance of the nasogastric drainage: The UAP can safely observe and report objective changes, such as color, amount, or consistency of drainage, which helps the nurse evaluate the client’s condition. C. Clamp the nasogastric tube before giving the client any fluids by mouth: Clamping or manipulating the NG tube involves clinical judgment about the client’s readiness for oral intake and tube function, which is beyond the UAP’s role. D. Irrigate the nasogastric tube with normal saline if the tube becomes obstructed: Irrigation requires sterile technique and assessment of tube patency, which must be performed by a nurse, not delegated to a UAP.