What is a responsibility of an RN regarding UAPs?

The responsibility of a registered nurse (RN) regarding unlicensed assistive personnel (UAPs) primarily involves supervising their direct patient care activities. This supervision is essential to ensure that UAPs provide safe, effective care in accordance with established protocols and standards.

The RN is responsible for overseeing the implementation of care plans and ensuring that UAPs understand their roles and the tasks they are assigned. Supervision also includes assessing the performance of UAPs during their interactions with patients and providing guidance or correction when necessary. This oversight is vital for patient safety and quality of care, as RNs are accountable for the overall care provided to patients, including that delivered by UAPs.

While training UAPs in specific tasks may occur, RNs are not required to train them in all aspects of nursing, as this would extend beyond the UAP's scope of practice. Conducting performance evaluations and determining work schedules typically falls under the purview of management or supervisory roles rather than being the direct responsibility of RNs. Thus, supervision of direct patient care activities is the key role that aligns with the RN's responsibilities in relation to UAPs.