Which task should the practical nurse (PN) assign to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) for a client on the urology medical unit?

Assigning the task of transporting a urine culture sample to the laboratory to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is appropriate because it is a non-invasive, straightforward task that does not require clinical judgment or specialized training. UAPs are often trained to perform duties like delivering specimens to ensure timely processing without compromising patient safety. This allows licensed practical nurses to focus on more complex tasks that require clinical expertise.

In contrast, performing catheterization requires specialized skills and knowledge to ensure it is done correctly and safely, which makes it unsuitable for a UAP. Assessing a client's intake and output involves critical evaluation and understanding of the client's overall health status, demanding skills that UAPs may not possess. Monitoring for signs of infection necessitates clinical assessment skills and the ability to interpret data, which again falls outside the role of unlicensed personnel.