A nurse is caring for residents at a long-term care facility following a tornado. Which of the following tasks should the nurse delegate to an assistive personnel?

Answer: D. Raisin toast

Rationale:

A. Soft-serve ice cream:
While soft-serve ice cream may seem appealing due to its mild taste and smooth texture, it can be high in sugar and fat, which might not be well-tolerated by patients experiencing chemotherapy-induced nausea. Heavy or rich foods can exacerbate nausea, making them less suitable for these clients.

B. Hot tea:
Hot tea can be soothing, but for individuals experiencing nausea, the warmth might not be well-received. Additionally, certain teas can contain caffeine, which may not be advisable for those undergoing chemotherapy, as it can sometimes exacerbate dehydration or jitters.

C. String cheese:
String cheese is a dairy product that can be heavy for some patients, particularly those experiencing nausea from chemotherapy. Dairy may cause gastric discomfort, and many patients may prefer lighter, less greasy options when feeling nauseous.

D. Raisin toast:
Raisin toast is a suitable choice as it is light, easy to digest, and contains carbohydrates that can help settle the stomach. The raisins add some natural sweetness without being overly rich, making it a good option for someone experiencing chemotherapy-induced nausea. This selection demonstrates an understanding of dietary choices that may be better tolerated during episodes of nausea.

A) Assist in checking a unit of packed RBCS to administer to a client:

Assisting in checking a unit of packed red blood cells (RBCs) for transfusion is within the nurse's scope of practice. Nurses are responsible for verifying blood products before administration, ensuring compatibility, proper labeling, and appropriate handling to prevent transfusion reactions.

B) Regulate the client's infusion pump after initiating a heparin drip infusion:

Regulating the client's infusion pump after initiating a heparin drip infusion falls within the nurse's scope of practice. Nurses commonly administer and monitor intravenous medications, including heparin drips, and are responsible for regulating the infusion pump to deliver the medication at the prescribed rate.

C) Teach a client about hemodialysis:

Teaching a client about hemodialysis is within the nurse's scope of practice. Patient education is a fundamental aspect of nursing care, and nurses often provide information to clients and their families about various healthcare procedures, treatments, and self-care management, including hemodialysis.

D) Create a plan of care for a client's discharge:

Creating a plan of care for a client's discharge is within the nurse's scope of practice. Nurses are involved in discharge planning, which includes coordinating with the healthcare team, assessing the client's needs, providing education about post-discharge care, arranging follow-up appointments, and ensuring a smooth transition to the next level of care or home.