Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which care team members are licensed professionals who delegate tasks to nursing assistants?

1. NAs, nurses

2. Resident's family

3. Nurses, PTs, OTs

4. NAs, physicians

The correct answer is: Nurses, PTs, OTs

The correct answer highlights that nurses, physical therapists (PTs), and occupational therapists (OTs) are licensed professionals who have the authority to delegate tasks to nursing assistants. Nurses play a central role in the healthcare team, responsible for direct patient care and oversight of the nursing assistants' activities. They are trained and licensed to assess patients' needs and decide which tasks can safely be performed by nursing assistants. Similarly, PTs and OTs, as licensed therapists, evaluate patients and develop treatment plans that may require the assistance of nursing assistants to carry out specific tasks that support patient rehabilitation and daily activities. Understanding the roles of these licensed professionals emphasizes the collaborative nature of healthcare. Delegation is not just about assigning tasks; it involves ensuring that nursing assistants are equipped to assist safely and effectively while adhering to the established care plans. This relationship enhances patient safety and quality of care, making it essential for the care team to operate within their scope of practice. In contrast, family members do not possess any licensing to delegate tasks within the healthcare setting; their role is typically more supportive and involved in the emotional and social aspects of patient care. Nursing assistants do not have the authority to delegate tasks to one another, as they are not licensed professionals tasked with oversight responsibilities. Therefore