3 Delegation and Assignment Free Online FlashCards

What is an assignment in nursing?

An assignment distributes work a team member is already authorized and competent to perform within their role.

Who retains accountability for nursing decisions after delegation?

The delegating nurse retains accountability for nursing decisions and the patient’s overall care. The delegatee is responsible for carrying out the accepted task correctly and communicating concerns.

Which nursing functions does an RN typically perform?

The RN typically assesses patients, sets nursing priorities, develops or updates care plans, evaluates outcomes, and delegates when appropriate.

What does the “right task” require?

The task must be allowed by law and policy, within the delegatee’s role, and not require nursing judgment.

When may an RN delegate routine vital signs to a UAP?

An RN may ask a competent UAP to take routine vital signs for a stable patient and promptly report them; the RN interprets the results and reassesses the patient.

Which kinds of work should not be delegated?

Assessment, interpretation, care planning, evaluation, and independent clinical decision-making should not be delegated. Verify local law and policy for exact task limits.

What is delegation in nursing?

Delegation is a licensed nurse’s direction that another person perform a specific activity or responsibility.

What is a licensed-to-licensed transfer of patient-care responsibility generally called?

A licensed-to-licensed transfer of patient-care responsibility is generally a handoff, not delegation.

May a delegatee pass a delegated task to another person?

No. A delegatee may not pass an accepted delegated task to someone else.

What is the UAP’s role in reporting patient observations?

A UAP may perform trained, authorized routine tasks when the patient and circumstances are suitable. The licensed nurse interprets observations and determines their significance for care.

What does the “right circumstance” require?

The patient’s condition and situation must be suitable. If the condition changes, the nurse should reassess the delegation.

What does the “right person” require?

The delegatee must have current, demonstrated competence for the specific task and patient population.