Which activity is within the RN scope but not within the UAP scope?

• A. Performing initial comprehensive assessment and establishing plan of care
• B. Taking vital signs under supervision
• C. Assisting with activities of daily living
• D. Providing basic hygiene care

Answer: (A)

Scope of practice differences between an RN and a UAP. Performing an initial comprehensive assessment and establishing the plan of care requires the nursing process—collecting and interpreting data, identifying problems, prioritizing needs, and creating an individualized plan. This involves clinical judgment and decision-making that only a licensed nurse is accountable for, and it guides all subsequent care.

UAPs can support care by taking vital signs under supervision, assisting with activities of daily living, and providing basic hygiene care. These tasks help implement the plan but do not involve initiating the assessment, diagnosing, or formulating the care plan.

So the activity that fits the RN scope but not the UAP scope is performing the initial comprehensive assessment and establishing the plan of care.