Which task should be performed by a registered nurse rather than a UAP?

• A. Ambulation
• B. Administering IV medications
• C. Auscultating lung sounds
• D. Planning care

Answer: (C)

Listening to and interpreting lung sounds is an assessment task that requires clinical judgment. The RN uses auscultation to detect abnormalities such as crackles, wheezes, or diminished breath sounds and to integrate these findings with other data to guide the care plan. UAPs handle delegated, task-oriented care like assisting with ambulation and activities of daily living, not performing nursing assessments or formulating care plans. Administering IV medications involves high-risk procedures and IV access that require licensed nursing staff, and planning care is part of the nursing process that cannot be delegated. So auscultating lung sounds is the task appropriate for a registered nurse.