Nursing Delegation

The act of delegation is a vital feature to how medical facilities maintain patient safety, quality of care and work efficiently (Potter, Deshields & Kuhrik, 2010). “Delegation is the transfer of responsibility for the performance of a task from one individual to another, while retaining accountability for the outcome” (Potter, Deshields & Kuhrik, 2010 pg. 2). This article conducted studies on how the delegation process may become hindered when passed along from the RN (registered nurse) to the NAP (nursing assistive personnel). It was clear to understand that for proper delegation to occur from RN’s to NAP’s both sides must have a mutual understanding, as we do not all share the same views (Potter, Deshields & Kuhrik, 2010). Everyone involved

What we do and do not do can threaten patient safety.

While we all play a role in completion of delegation, the RN has specific roles in the task of delegating, as they are the ones doing the delegation. The RN should be competent in the delegation process. Chief nursing officers and nurse managers are usually the ones in charge of verifying that RN’s meet the requirements related to delegation and making sure they understand the clear guidelines that are set forth by management (Potter, Deshields & Kuhrik, 2010). For the RN to ensure proper delegation, he/or she must communicate clearly and concisely (Potter, Deshields & Kuhrik, 2010). They must use proper judgment when following the 5 rights of delegation, which include the right task, circumstance, person, direction or communication, and supervision (Potter, Deshields & Kuhrik, 2010). To instill these rights, the RN must know the competency level of the NAP, in which the task is being delegated to. Besides their competency, tasks delegated should always

Some staff were unable to make it to work leaving the oncoming shift short. While our floor was initially full-staffed, some of our CNA’s were pulled to other units, leaving us short of two CNA’s. The CNA/patient ratios on our unit were already overwhelming, which put a strain on everything during the day. While this was not a unit I work on normally, I was still charge nurse and would be held accountable for unfinished tasks. By using the 5 rights of delegation along with the help of the regular CNA’s on the floor, I was able to delegate responsibilities evenly and effectively amongst our staff. While the day started out rough, because of the collaborative effort and effective communication between all the staff, we met the needs of our patients. It is important to possess the qualities necessary to be a successful delegator. Understanding the 5 rights of delegation would assist in guiding me in the delegation process to make appropriate clinical-care decisions and facilitate completion of assigned daily tasks. I would keep updated on the changes within the scope of practice of the staff, in which I am responsible for. Making use of the in-services offered by the employer in guiding communication techniques if conflict should arise can also be a useful resource as a