Answer choices
- A start IV, take pulse, insert catheter
- B take temperature, pulse, and respiration
- C insert catheter, take resp, start IV
- D change sterile dressing, take pulse & temp
Correct answer: B. take temperature, pulse, and respiration
Clinical Rationale
A nursing assistant may take temperature, pulse, and respiration.
Nursing assistants are trained to perform basic clinical tasks, which include monitoring vital signs such as temperature, pulse, and respiration. These tasks are fundamental to patient care and fall within the scope of practice for nursing assistants.
A) start IV, take pulse, insert catheter
Starting an IV and inserting a catheter are typically outside the scope of practice for nursing assistants. These procedures require specialized training and are generally performed by registered nurses or licensed practical nurses due to their complexity and the need for sterile technique.
B) take temperature, pulse, and respiration
Nursing assistants are well-equipped to take vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and respiration. This fundamental responsibility is essential to patient monitoring and is a routine part of their job description, aligning perfectly with their training and certification.
C) insert catheter, take resp, start IV
Inserting a catheter and starting an IV are advanced procedures that require specific nursing education and licensure. Although taking respiratory rates is within the nursing assistant's scope, the other two tasks are not and therefore make this option incorrect.
D) change sterile dressing, take pulse & temp
Changing sterile dressings is typically a task reserved for licensed nurses, as it requires an understanding of infection control and wound management. While taking pulse and temperature is appropriate, the inclusion of dressing changes renders this option invalid for nursing assistants.
Conclusion
Nursing assistants play a critical role in patient care by monitoring vital signs like temperature, pulse, and respiration, which are essential for assessing a patient's health status. While they are trained for various supportive tasks, more complex procedures such as starting IVs or changing sterile dressings are reserved for licensed nursing professionals. Thus, the ability to take vital signs is a key responsibility that defines their role in healthcare settings.