“Delegation” refers to the transfer of tasks or responsibilities from one individual to another, generally within a team structure.
Download PDF
Download PDF
In the context of healthcare, there are two major categories of delegation, provider-based and nursing-based:
- Provider-based delegation involves assignment of tasks by physicians to other professionals – such as medical assistants, physician assistants and nurse practitioners – within their prescribed scope of practice. Such delegation typically takes place in the framework of a collaborative practice model.
- Nursing-based delegation can occur at any level of nursing licensure – i.e., advanced practice nurses, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. The appropriateness of the delegation depends upon the condition of the patient/client, the competence level of the assigned staff member and the degree of required supervision.
As the demands on healthcare organizations increase and staffing limitations persist, appropriate delegation has become an essential component of high-quality care. It enables treatment teams to function in an efficient, collaborative way, while fostering a practice environment in which team members feel included and valued, thus potentially enhancing morale and reducing turnover.
Although delegation specifics can vary widely – based upon setting, task, patient/client acuity and state scope of practice regulations – certain basic steps apply to the process as a whole. These are depicted in the diagram at the bottom of the page.
While delegation is a vital aspect of healthcare delivery, it presents its share of risks and should therefore be conducted in a strategic, safety-conscious way. When delegating tasks, healthcare professionals must always keep in mind state scope of practice regulations and/or nurse practice acts, as well as organizational rules and regulations.
This edition of inBrief ® describes the five pillars of effective delegation: clearly defined clinical criteria and expectations, delegatee readiness, effective communication, emergency response and sound documentation. It also offers a range of risk management strategies designed to achieve the core goals of delegation. A sidebar on page 4 takes a closer look at common collaborative structures within healthcare settings and offers practical measures designed to enhance teamwork, efficiency and compliance.
This publication is intended to inform Affinity Insurance Services, Inc., customers of potential liability in their practice. This information is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to provide individualized guidance. All descriptions, summaries or highlights of coverage are for general informational purposes only and do not amend, alter or modify the actual terms or conditions of any insurance policy. Coverage is governed only by the terms and conditions of the relevant policy. Any references to non-Aon, AIS, NSO, HPSO websites are provided solely for convenience, and Aon, AIS, NSO and HPSO disclaims any responsibility with respect to such websites. This information is not intended to offer legal advice or to establish appropriate or acceptable standards of professional conduct. Readers should consult with a lawyer if they have specific concerns. Neither Affinity Insurance Services, Inc., NSO, nor CNA assumes any liability for how this information is applied in practice or for the accuracy of this information.
Nurses Service Organization is a registered trade name of Affinity Insurance Services, Inc., a licensed producer in all states (TX 13695); (AR 100106022); in CA, MN, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (CA 0795465); in OK, AIS Affinity Insurance Services, Inc.; in CA, Aon Affinity Insurance Services, Inc., (CA 0G94493), Aon Direct Insurance Administrators and Berkely Insurance Agency and in NY, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency.