Which task is outside the scope of practice for nursing assistants?

Which task is outside the scope of practice for nursing assistants?

• A. Inserting or removing tubes
• B. Observing and reporting changes in residents
• C. Assisting with activities of daily living
• D. Providing basic wound care

Answer: (A)

Scope of practice defines what a nursing assistant can and cannot do. Inserting or removing tubes is an invasive procedure that requires assessment, sterile technique, and ongoing monitoring by a licensed clinician. It involves managing a device that can affect a resident’s airway, digestion, or drainage, and carries risks like injury or infection. Because of those risks and the need for medical orders and specialized training, this task is outside a CNA’s duties. The other tasks align with what CNAs routinely do: observing residents and reporting any changes to the nurse, and assisting with activities of daily living to support comfort, safety, and independence. Providing basic wound care is also within the typical scope when it involves simple, non-sterile care under proper supervision and instructions.

Scope of practice defines what a nursing assistant can and cannot do. Inserting or removing tubes is an invasive procedure that requires assessment, sterile technique, and ongoing monitoring by a licensed clinician. It involves managing a device that can affect a resident’s airway, digestion, or drainage, and carries risks like injury or infection. Because of those risks and the need for medical orders and specialized training, this task is outside a CNA’s duties.

The other tasks align with what CNAs routinely do: observing residents and reporting any changes to the nurse, and assisting with activities of daily living to support comfort, safety, and independence. Providing basic wound care is also within the typical scope when it involves simple, non-sterile care under proper supervision and instructions.