Which activities are restricted for UAPs?

• A. Collecting vital signs and input/output
• B. Reporting abnormal findings
• C. Identifying abnormal findings
• D. Performing initial comprehensive assessments

Answer: (D)

The main idea is understanding scope of practice and who handles comprehensive evaluation and clinical judgment. UAPs are trained to perform routine, objective data collection under supervision, such as taking vital signs and tracking input/output, and to report anything out of the ordinary to a licensed nurse so it can be interpreted and acted upon. They do not perform tasks that require synthesizing information across multiple data points, interpreting findings, or forming nursing diagnoses. The initial comprehensive assessment, however, is a thorough, holistic evaluation that integrates health history, physical examination across body systems, psychosocial factors, and baseline status to guide the care plan. This kind of synthesis and clinical decision-making is within the responsibility of a licensed nurse, not an unlicensed assistive personnel. Therefore, performing an initial comprehensive assessment is restricted for UAPs. The other activities involve routine data collection or reporting under supervision and are within their delegated role when appropriate.