Which task is appropriate for a nurse to assign to an assistive personnel (AP)?

Assigning the task of collecting a urine sample for urinalysis to assistive personnel (AP) is appropriate because this responsibility falls within the scope of practice for AP. They are trained to perform basic tasks that support patient care, and collecting specimens is a fundamental activity that does not require advanced clinical judgment or assessment skills.

In this case, the AP can follow established protocols to obtain a urine sample, ensuring that the process is performed safely and correctly. This allows the registered nurse to focus on more complex patient care responsibilities, such as evaluation and decision-making that require professional nursing knowledge.

The other tasks listed, such as administering medication, assessing vital signs, and conducting health education sessions, involve a higher level of clinical judgment and decision-making. These responsibilities are typically reserved for licensed nursing staff who have the necessary training and expertise to ensure safe and effective patient care.