1 of 15

Scope of Practice

Unit 2 Lesson 3

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

2 of 15

COPYRIGHT

NI Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

3 of 15

Define the scope of practice
List the 9 nurse’s aide tasks allowed by states
Explain the 4 S’s of nurse’s aide care

Student Learning Outcomes

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

4 of 15

Scope of Practice

Services a trained health professional is deemed competent to perform
Permitted tasks according to state professional license to ensure safe and quality care
Varies by state or country

Check state/country regulations

Aligns with legal and professional standards

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

5 of 15

Federal Guidelines for Nurse Aide Tasks 1

Nine Allowable Tasks (Federal regulation 42 CFR § 483)

Personal Care Skills

Bathing, grooming, dressing

Safety/Emergency Procedures

CPR, emergency response

Basic Nursing Skills

Vital signs, bed making

Infection Control

Hand hygiene, using personal protective equipment (PPE)

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

6 of 15

Critical Thinking Question

Which of the following tasks is within the scope of practice for a nurse aide?

A) Diagnosing a medical condition

B) Administering medication without supervision

C) Assisting with personal care activities

D) Developing a treatment plan

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

7 of 15

Federal Guidelines for Nurse Aide Tasks 2

Communication/Interpersonal Skills

Effective communication with patients

Care of Cognitively Impaired patients

Approaching patients with dementia

Basic Restorative Care

Assisting with mobility exercises

Mental Health/Social Service Needs

Supporting emotional well-being

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

8 of 15

Federal Guidelines for Nurse Aide Tasks 3

Patients’ Rights

Ensuring dignity and privacy

*Note: Tasks may vary slightly by state and country; always verify with state guidelines

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

9 of 15

Critical Thinking Question

A nurse aide is assisting a patient with dementia who is becoming agitated and refuses to take a bath.

What is the best approach for the aide to assist the patient while respecting their rights and ensuring safety?

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

10 of 15

The 4 S’s of Nurse Aide Care

Scope

Verify the task is within your legal scope

Perform tasks evaluated during training or approved by state

2. Supervision

Ensure clear instructions and supervision by an RN

Use available resources for clarification if needed

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

11 of 15

The 4 S’s of Nurse Aide Care

3. Safety

Reassess your competency for tasks like mechanical lifts
Patient safety is paramount; seek refresher training as required

4. Supplies

Confirm availability of equipment before starting tasks
Includes PPE, transfer aids, and patient-specific items

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

12 of 15

Practical Application and Compliance

Implementation Phase

Tasks assigned by RNs fall within allowable practices
Consistently check if tasks align with training and licensure

State/Country Variations

Some states/countries allow additional training for enhanced care
Stay informed about changes in local regulations

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

13 of 15

Critical Thinking Question

A patient requires assistance with mobility exercises as part of their restorative care plan. What should the aide do to ensure they are performing within their scope of practice?

A) Perform the exercises without checking the care plan

B) Confirm the exercises with the patient only

C) Review the care plan and consult with a supervising RN if needed

D) Ignore the care plan and rely on personal judgment

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

14 of 15

References

Sandquist-Reuter, M. (2023). Nursing Assistant. WisTech Open. https://wtcs.pressbooks.pub/nurseassist/

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org

15 of 15

Please go to

My Learning Experience

to provide feedback on your experience.

Thank you, and come back soon!

Contact info: info@nursesinternational.org