kouklamou

Soooo glad someone finally asked this question!!!! I haven't started working yet...am actually taking my NCLEX next week, but I constantly felt this way during my internship! Totally sympathize with you! Don't worry though, you'll get the hang of it sooner than you think!

I am using the study guide "Prioritization, Delegation, & Assignment" to help study for the NCLEX and I am a bit confused with what can and can not be delegated to nursing assistants (or PCA's). For example, according to the book, nursing assistants can disconnect NG tube suction to allow ambulation to the toilet and can reinforce dietary and fluid restrictions after the RN has explained the info to the patient. I have never seen the nursing assistants do either of these in the hospital. However, the book states that "only experienced nursing assistants" can draw blood and administer enemas, both of which I have seen almost every nursing assistant do in the hospital. I know that certain info on the NCLEX is not true-to-life, but can anyone clarify this for me? Thanks.