Delegation & Continuity of Care Study Guide

A set of flashcards covering key concepts related to delegation and continuity of care in nursing, as outlined in the study guide.

Delegation

The process by which a nurse assigns a task to another trained person while remaining responsible for the overall patient outcome.

ANA

American Nurses Association; defines delegation as the transfer of responsibility.

NCSBN

National Council of State Boards of Nursing; defines delegation as the transfer of authority.

Accountability

The responsibility of the nurse to follow up and ensure the patient outcomes are met, even when delegation occurs.

Right Task

Routine, predictable tasks with minimal risk that do not involve nursing judgment.

Right Circumstance

Delegation should occur only when the patient is stable, the outcome predictable, and resources adequate.

Right Person

Ensuring the person delegated to is trained and competent for the specific task.

Right Communication

Providing clear and complete instructions on what to do, when to report, and patient-specific instructions.

Right Supervision

The responsibility of the RN to monitor, follow up, and evaluate the delegated tasks.

UAP

Unlicensed Assistive Personnel; individuals who can perform specific tasks such as vital signs but cannot perform assessments or give medications.

LPN/LVN

Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse; can perform specific nursing tasks under the supervision of an RN.

Continuity of Care

A seamless, coordinated flow of care as the patient transitions from one healthcare setting to another.

Effective Communication

Essential in delegating tasks and ensuring clear, concise, and correct instructions are provided to the delegate.

Patient Advocacy

The role of the nurse in coordinating care, discharge planning, and ensuring patient needs are met.