What Is Delegation?
The process by which a registered nurse assigns appropriate tasks to other qualified team members, such as licensed practical nurses or nursing assistants, while retaining accountability for the outcome. Only stable, predictable tasks within the delegatee's competence may be delegated.
Delegation across 2 exams
Delegation appears on the following exams. Each defines it in the context candidates are tested on:
- NCLEX-RN
- The process by which a registered nurse assigns appropriate tasks to other qualified team members, such as licensed practical nurses or nursing assistants, while retaining accountability for the outcome. Only stable, predictable tasks within the delegatee's competence may be delegated.
- NCLEX-PN
- The process by which a nurse assigns appropriate tasks to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) while retaining accountability for the overall care. Safe delegation requires knowledge of the task, the delegate's competency, and proper supervision.