Drag each task to the team member who can most appropriately perform it on this shift.
Matrix Multiple Choice
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
The RN performs initial or unstable assessments, clinical judgment, and initial teaching. A competent LPN/VN may provide predictable care, administer routine medications, change a stable wound dressing, and reinforce established teaching when policy permits. A competent UAP may collect routine data and assist a stable client with previously assessed activities of daily living.
Quick answer Unstable assessment and initial teaching stay with the RN; predictable licensed care may go to the LPN/VN; routine stable data and ADLs may go to the UAP.
Why this is correct Delegation depends on the client, task, circumstances, delegatee competence, communication, and supervision. A job title alone does not authorize every task, and the RN cannot delegate away responsibility for nursing judgment.
NCLEX decision rule Ask whether the client is stable, the outcome is predictable, judgment is limited, and policy plus demonstrated competence support the assignment.
References
1NCSBN Delegation Guidance
2NCSBN National Guidelines for Nursing Delegation
Policy-bounded delegationThe RN knows each team member's competence. The jurisdiction and facility policy allow the LPN/VN activities listed below. The RN retains accountability for assessment, clinical judgment, delegation, supervision, and evaluation.
Assignment — The distribution of work already within the authorized scope and usual role of the team member.
Delegation — The transfer of authority to perform a selected task while the delegating nurse retains accountability for the decision and oversight.
Predictable Outcome — An expected response with low likelihood of rapid change, reducing the clinical judgment required during the task.