PRINCIPLES OF DELEGATION
Delegation is the process of transferring authority and responsibility in the performance of tasks or activities to another individual while retaining accountability for the outcomes. The delegation process involves two people, that is the delegator and the delegatee. For effective delegation, the delegator must consider the concept of accountability, responsibility and authority. Delegation is only said to be successful when the delegatee accepts the responsibility to perform those tasks and the delegator is ready to take accountability for the outcomes. The American Nurses Association outlined five rights of delegation as right tasks, right circumstances, right supervision, right direction and must be delegated to the right person.
The joint statement of delegation outlined the principles of delegation with a purpose of guiding the nurses in making informed decisions in the process of delegation. Some of the principles include granting proper amount of authority, define results expected, effective communication system, consider subordinate’s capabilities and following the chain of command when delegating. The manger should also develop effective control system and make that the authority is clearly stated. The principles of delegation have been incorporated in nursing practice through delegating cleaning of linen, patient clothes and the hospital to the non-subordinate staff. Nurses also delegate duties and tasks among themselves to ensure its effectiveness and timely completion. The principle of responsibility and accountability is incorporated whereby the nurse can delegate tasks to a student while still being accountable for the care provision of the patient and its outcomes.
In our organization, the principles of delegation are employed. For example, the nurse in charge delegated preparation of duty rosters and documentation of the daily reports to the deputy. Also, duties are being delegated to students and interns while the superiors still retain accountability. The nurse leader should ensure that delegation is used effectively, safely and ethical by ensuring that the right process of delegation is followed and being implemented according to the scope and standards of nursing practice. They should be able to know the tasks to delegate and which not to delegate to prevent disclosure of vital information and promote patient safety. The principles of delegation also promote effectiveness by guiding the decision making process. Lastly, adhering to the five rights of delegation will enhance safety and effectiveness.
References
American Nurses Association. (2005). Principles for delegation. Silver Spring, MD: Author.
Hudspeth, R. (2007). Understanding delegation is a critical competency for nurses in the new millennium. Nursing administration quarterly, 31(2), 183-184.