What is a key responsibility of an RN in the context of delegating care?

A key responsibility of an RN when delegating care is to supervise unlicensed assistive personnel (UAPs). This supervision ensures that the care delivery is safe, effective, and aligned with established protocols. RNs are trained to assess patient needs, make decisions based on clinical judgment, and provide guidance to UAPs. This includes clearly communicating the tasks that can be delegated, as well as any limitations or special considerations regarding the patient’s care.

Effective supervision involves monitoring the performance of UAPs, providing ongoing training and feedback, and maintaining oversight to ensure that patient safety is prioritized. The RN remains accountable for the overall care of the patient, even when some aspects of care are delegated. This supervisory role is crucial in promoting a collaborative healthcare environment and ensuring positive patient outcomes.

The other options do not align with the primary responsibilities associated with delegation. Providing direct care only limits the RN’s role and minimizes the potential benefits of collaboration. Controlling all patient interactions is impractical and not reflective of the collaborative approach required in healthcare. Handling all medical records is typically not the sole responsibility of an RN, as documentation may involve multiple healthcare team members.