What should the charge nurse prioritize in the assignment of tasks to the UAP?

The charge nurse should prioritize tasks that ensure patient safety and wellbeing because patient safety is the foremost responsibility in healthcare settings. Assigning tasks that directly impact a patient's safety, such as monitoring vital signs, ensuring proper hygiene, and assisting with mobility, is essential for the prevention of complications or adverse events.

By focusing on patient safety and wellbeing, the charge nurse also adheres to the legal and ethical standards of nursing practice. This prioritization aligns with the core responsibilities of nursing, which include advocating for patients and ensuring their physical and emotional security. While tasks involving direct patient interaction, routine documentation, or those requiring independent clinical judgment are important, they do not take precedence over actions that are foundational to safeguarding the health and safety of patients. Hence, tasks that directly impact patient safety must be treated as the highest priority in assuring quality care.