Here's how you can decide which tasks to delegate in nursing.

1 Assess Scope

Before delegating tasks, it's essential to understand the scope of practice for each team member. The scope of practice is defined by state law and the policies of your healthcare facility, outlining what tasks each level of nursing staff is qualified and authorized to perform. For example, registered nurses (RNs) have a broader scope than licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or nursing assistants (NAs). By being aware of these boundaries, you can delegate tasks appropriately and ensure that patient care is not compromised by assigning tasks to someone not legally permitted or adequately trained to perform them.

2 Evaluate Skills

Evaluating the skills and competencies of your team members is crucial when deciding which tasks to delegate. You must consider each individual's education, training, experience, and demonstrated proficiency. For instance, if a task requires clinical judgment, it should be delegated to someone with the necessary expertise, such as an RN rather than an NA. By matching tasks with the appropriate skill sets, you ensure that each task is carried out effectively and safely, enhancing overall patient care.

3 Prioritize Tasks

Prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance is a key step in effective delegation. As a nurse, you must identify which tasks require immediate attention and which can be assigned to others without compromising patient safety. For example, tasks that are critical for patient care should remain your responsibility, while less urgent tasks such as documenting patient information or preparing rooms for new admissions can be delegated. This prioritization helps maintain a smooth workflow and ensures that crucial aspects of patient care are addressed promptly.

4 Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is fundamental when delegating tasks in nursing. You must provide detailed instructions, expected outcomes, and any necessary information about the patient's condition. This ensures that the person taking over the task has a complete understanding of what is expected and how to execute the task properly. Additionally, establishing an open line of communication allows for questions and clarifications, reducing the likelihood of errors and ensuring that care is delivered effectively.

5 Monitor Performance

After delegating tasks, it's important to monitor the performance and progress of your team members. This involves providing oversight and support as needed, as well as giving feedback to help them improve their skills. Monitoring also allows you to identify any issues early on and intervene if the quality of care is at risk. By keeping an eye on how tasks are being carried out, you can ensure that standards are maintained and that your team members feel supported in their roles.

6 Adjust as Needed

Finally, be prepared to adjust your delegation plan as needed. The dynamic nature of healthcare means that situations can change rapidly, and you must be flexible in response. If a team member is struggling with a delegated task, be ready to reassess the situation and provide additional support or reallocate the task if necessary. This adaptability not only ensures patient safety but also helps build a resilient and responsive team capable of handling the complexities of nursing care.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?