What action can a registered nurse delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) for a patient with tuberculosis?

The most appropriate action for a registered nurse to delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) in the context of caring for a patient with tuberculosis involves stocking the patient's room with necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). This task is straightforward and does not require complex clinical judgment or specialized knowledge. UAP can carry out such logistical duties effectively, ensuring that PPE like masks, gloves, and gowns are available for healthcare providers and visitors, contributing to the safety and infection control measures necessary for managing tuberculosis.

The other options require more specialized knowledge and critical thinking. For example, teaching a patient about the proper use of tissues for respiratory hygiene involves education that requires a clinical understanding of infection control procedures, which is typically part of a nurse's responsibilities. Interviewing a patient to obtain personal information, such as names of family members and close contacts, necessitates clinical judgment and sensitivity regarding patient privacy and confidentiality, making it an inappropriate task for UAP. Finally, explaining medical concepts or protocols, such as the rationale for airborne precautions to family members, is a communicative responsibility that requires professional knowledge and may involve delicate discussions about the patient's condition, further surpassing the UAP's role. Therefore, stocking PPE represents a suitable and safe delegation of tasks in this scenario