Which specimen collection task can the nurse delegate to UAP?

Which specimen collection task can the nurse delegate to UAP?

• A. Blood sample from a vein
• B. Urine from an indwelling catheter
• C. Wound culture
• D. Bone marrow aspiration

Answer: (B)

Delegating the collection of urine from an indwelling catheter to a Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP) is appropriate because this task falls within the scope of practice for UAPs. Collecting urine from an indwelling catheter does not require specialized nursing judgment or skills; it is a straightforward procedure that involves following established protocols to ensure aseptic technique. The procedure involves temporarily clamping the catheter, using a syringe to withdraw urine from the catheter port, and then transferring the specimen into a sterile container. This task is generally considered routine and can be safely performed by UAPs after they receive proper instructions and training. It also ensures that nurses can focus on more complex care and assessment duties that require their expertise. The other tasks listed, such as drawing blood from a vein, performing wound cultures, and conducting bone marrow aspirations, require specialized knowledge, skills, and clinical judgment that are part of a nurse's training. These procedures involve more complex considerations regarding patient care, pain management, and infection control, which UAPs are not equipped to manage.

Delegating the collection of urine from an indwelling catheter to a Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP) is appropriate because this task falls within the scope of practice for UAPs. Collecting urine from an indwelling catheter does not require specialized nursing judgment or skills; it is a straightforward procedure that involves following established protocols to ensure aseptic technique.

The procedure involves temporarily clamping the catheter, using a syringe to withdraw urine from the catheter port, and then transferring the specimen into a sterile container. This task is generally considered routine and can be safely performed by UAPs after they receive proper instructions and training. It also ensures that nurses can focus on more complex care and assessment duties that require their expertise.

The other tasks listed, such as drawing blood from a vein, performing wound cultures, and conducting bone marrow aspirations, require specialized knowledge, skills, and clinical judgment that are part of a nurse's training. These procedures involve more complex considerations regarding patient care, pain management, and infection control, which UAPs are not equipped to manage.