For each proposed assignment or delegation decision, identify whether it is appropriate for the RN or needs correction.
Matrix
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
Delegation is a clinical decision, not just workload distribution. The RN evaluates client stability, task predictability, potential harm, required judgment, team-member competence, and available supervision. Routine care for a stable predictable client may be assigned within the individual's legal scope and demonstrated competence. Initial assessment, interpretation of a new acute change, care planning, and evaluation require RN judgment. The RN gives clear directions and parameters, remains available, follows up, and intervenes when results are unexpected. Scope varies by jurisdiction, so local law and policy still apply.
Why It Fits Tasks involving initial assessment or unstable clinical judgment cannot be transferred merely because another team member is available.
Clinical Picture The delegatee is responsible for performing the task correctly, while the RN remains accountable for the delegation decision and evaluation.
Memory Link Stable task, clear direction, known skill, available RN, completed follow-up.
NCLEX Rule Match the right task and circumstance with the right person, direction, supervision, and evaluation under applicable scope rules.
Why the Alternatives Fail Delegating assessment, independent medication decisions, or unstable-client judgment without follow-up exceeds a safe delegation process.
Sources
1NCSBN National Guidelines for Nursing Delegation
2NCSBN 2026 NCLEX-RN Test Plan
Medical-surgical unitThe RN coordinates care with a licensed practical or vocational nurse and an experienced unlicensed assistive person. Local law and facility policy permit routine predictable tasks within demonstrated competence. The RN retains accountability for nursing judgment, supervision, and evaluation.
Delegation — Transfer of responsibility for performing a selected task while the licensed nurse retains accountability for the delegation decision.
Assignment — Distribution of work that is already within the team member's authorized role and scope.
Supervision — Ongoing direction, monitoring, support, and evaluation appropriate to the client, task, and delegatee.