Which task can be delegated to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) on a surgical unit?

Delegating the task of setting up a room for an expected postoperative admission to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is appropriate because it involves non-invasive, preparatory work that does not require specialized medical training or licensure. This task primarily involves arranging supplies, ensuring cleanliness, and preparing the environment for the upcoming patient, which aligns with UAP responsibilities in a surgical unit.

In contrast, assessing client health status involves clinical judgment and evaluation skills, which are beyond the scope of practice for UAP. Administering medication also requires licensed personnel due to the potential risks and legal implications involved. Performing a wound dressing change is a more skilled task that typically requires knowledge of infection control and the patient's condition, which UAP are not trained to handle independently. Therefore, setting up the room is the only task in this scenario that UAP can safely and effectively perform.