Delegation

Question 1

What are some issues affecting staffing patterns?

Answer 1

Reduced reimbursement from Medicare/Medicaid
Health care reform with more people having access to primary care
Rapid advances in medical technology
Increase in patient acuity and complex treatments

Question 2

What is the role of RNs in safe delegation practices?

Answer 2

Assess the situation
Delegate appropriately (5 rights of delegation)
Provide clear instructions
Supervise the delegatee
Evaluate outcome while remaining accountable for patient safety

Question 3

What are the five rights of delegation?

Answer 3

Right person
Task
Circumstances
Direction & communication
Supervision & evaluation

These rights ensure effective and safe delegation in nursing.

Question 4

What can and cannot be delegated:

Answer 4

There is no definitive list of what can/cannot be delegated

Question 5

What tasks can be delegated to an AP?

Answer 5

VS
Ambulation
ADLs
Feeding
Positioning

These tasks are considered routine and do not require nursing judgment.

Question 6

What tasks can be delegated to an LPN?

Answer 6

Tracheostomy care
Suctioning
Inserting urinary catheter
Medication administration
Reinforcing client teaching
Sterile specimen collection
Checking NG tube patency

Question 7

What tasks cannot be delegated?

Answer 7

Assessment
Evaluation
Nursing judgment
Initial teaching

Nursing Process

Question 8

What does the Nurse Practice Act provide?

Answer 8

Guidance for legal delegation

It defines the scope of practice for nurses and ensures patient safety.

Question 9

What should a nurse know to develop safe delegation practices?

Answer 9

Know:
The patient
Staff member and his/her skills & competencies
The task

Explain tasks & expected outcomes
Expect responsible action
Assess & supervise
Evaluate & follow up