A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is planning to delegate tasks to an adult volunteer. Which of the following tasks should the charge nurse avoid assigning to the volunteer?

Choice A rationale:
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication that is typically used long-term to control seizures. It is not a medication that can be stopped abruptly, as this can lead to the recurrence of seizures or even status epilepticus, a life-threatening condition characterized by continuous seizure activity.
The client's statement, "I'll be glad when I can stop taking this medicine," indicates a lack of understanding about the long- term nature of phenytoin therapy and the potential risks associated with stopping the medication prematurely.
Further teaching is needed to emphasize the importance of medication adherence and the potential consequences of non- adherence.

Choice B rationale:
Phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of gum tissue), so it is important for clients taking this medication to see a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
The client's statement, "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week," indicates an understanding of this potential side effect and the need for regular dental care.

Choice C rationale:
Phenytoin has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that there is a small difference between the effective dose and the toxic dose.
Switching brands of phenytoin can lead to changes in blood levels of the medication, which could potentially result in therapeutic failure or toxicity.
The client's statement, "I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication," indicates an understanding of this important safety consideration.

Choice D rationale:
Phenytoin can interact with many other medications, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.
It is important for clients taking phenytoin to notify their doctor before taking any other medications to avoid potential drug interactions.
The client's statement, "I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications," indicates an understanding of this potential risk.

Choice A rationale:
Urine collection from an indwelling catheter is a sterile procedure that requires aseptic technique to prevent contamination of the specimen and potential urinary tract infection. Assistive personnel (AP) may not have the necessary training in sterile technique and therefore should not be delegated this task. Additionally, the nurse needs to assess the patient for any signs of urinary tract infection or other complications before collecting the urine specimen, which is within the scope of nursing practice.

Choice B rationale:
Blood collection for PaCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) is an invasive procedure that requires assessment of the patient's condition, appropriate site selection, and proper technique to ensure accurate results. This task is within the scope of nursing practice and should not be delegated to AP.

Choice C rationale:
Wound drainage collection for culture also requires aseptic technique to prevent contamination of the specimen and ensure accurate results. The nurse needs to assess the wound for signs of infection, choose the appropriate collection method, and ensure proper labeling and transport of the specimen. This task is within the scope of nursing practice and should not be delegated to AP.

Choice D rationale:
Random stool specimen collection is a non-invasive procedure that does not require sterile technique. AP can be trained to collect random stool specimens safely and effectively, following standard precautions for handling body fluids.