Which infection control activity can be delegated to an experienced nursing assistant?

Disinfecting blood pressure cuffs after discharge is an appropriate infection control activity that can be delegated to an experienced nursing assistant. This task falls within the scope of practice for nursing assistants, as it involves basic cleaning and disinfection procedures that help to prevent the spread of infections in the healthcare environment. Nursing assistants are trained in standard infection control measures, including the cleaning and maintenance of equipment, making them suitable for this responsibility.

On the other hand, tasks that involve direct client interaction or the need for clinical judgment, such as asking clients about antibiotic therapy duration, demonstrating handwashing techniques, or screening for respiratory symptoms, typically require the assessment skills and critical thinking that registered nurses possess. These tasks also involve higher-level decision-making and patient education, roles that are reserved for licensed nursing professionals rather than nursing assistants.