Examine the five factors to be assessed before delegating (potential for harm, etc.) for a particular task.
In making a decision to delegate a nursing task, the following five factors should be assessed:
- Potential for harm: The nurse must determine how much risk the activity carries for an individual patient.
- Complexity of the task: The more complex the activity, the less desirable it is to delegate.
- Amount of problem solving and innovation required: If an uncomplicated task requires special attention, adaptation, or an innovative approach, it should not be delegated.
- Unpredictability of outcome: When a patient’s response to the activity is unknown or unpredictable it is not advisable to delegate that activity.
- Level of patient interaction: It is not advisable to delegate so many tasks that the amount of time the nurse spends with the patient is decreased to the point that a therapeutic relationship cannot be established between the nurse and the patient. (AACN, 2004Links to an external site., p.10)
Explain why or why not a task would be delegated depending on each factor.
using an example you can share, and/or face at your current practice setting? (I work at a needle exchange program where understaff and delegation has become a big problem as more work has to be divided when staff is already burnout).
Full Answer Section
2. Complexity of the Task
- Complex Tasks: Tasks requiring critical thinking, clinical judgment, or specialized knowledge, such as assessing a patient's condition or developing a care plan, should not be delegated.
- Simple Tasks: Routine tasks like obtaining vital signs or assisting with hygiene can be delegated to qualified individuals.
3. Amount of Problem-Solving and Innovation Required
- Routine Tasks: Tasks that follow standard procedures and require minimal decision-making can be delegated.
- Non-Routine Tasks: Tasks that require problem-solving, critical thinking, or creative solutions should be retained by the nurse.
4. Unpredictability of Outcome
- Predictable Outcomes: Tasks with predictable outcomes, such as administering oral medications, can be delegated.
- Unpredictable Outcomes: Tasks that may have unpredictable outcomes, such as responding to a sudden change in a patient's condition, should be retained by the nurse.
5. Level of Patient Interaction
- High-Interaction Tasks: Tasks that require building rapport, providing emotional support, or addressing complex patient needs should be retained by the nurse.
- Low-Interaction Tasks: Routine tasks that involve minimal patient interaction, such as taking vital signs or assisting with hygiene, can be delegated.
Real-World Example: Needle Exchange Program
In a needle exchange program, a common challenge is understaffing. While it's tempting to delegate tasks to maximize efficiency, it's crucial to consider the five factors:
- Task: Collecting used needles and syringes.
- Potential for Harm: Low, as long as proper safety precautions are followed.
- Complexity: Low, a routine task with clear procedures.
- Problem-Solving: Minimal, as it's a straightforward task.
- Unpredictability: Low, as the outcome is predictable.
- Patient Interaction: Minimal, primarily involves handling supplies and disposing of waste.
Conclusion:
In this scenario, the task of collecting used needles and syringes can be safely delegated to trained staff, as it meets the criteria for delegation. However, it's essential to provide adequate training and supervision to ensure safe and effective performance.
Remember, the decision to delegate should always prioritize patient safety and quality of care. By carefully considering these factors, nurses can effectively delegate tasks and optimize their workload.