Delegation involves what?

• A. Transferring accountability completely
• B. Assigning tasks without considering supervision
• C. Transferring responsibility while retaining accountability
• D. Doing the task herself

Answer: (C)

Delegation means transferring responsibility for performing a task to someone else while you retain accountability for the outcome. You assign the work, ensure the person has the competence and authority to do it, provide the needed supervision and direction, and monitor results. The person who carries out the task is responsible for doing it correctly, but you remain answerable for patient safety and the overall result. This is different from relinquishing accountability completely, doing the task yourself, or assigning tasks without any supervision.