Below are some common delegation issues with examples.

Below are some common delegation issues with examples. Give your own examples of over-delegation, under-delegation, and refusal to accept a legitimate delegation, and explain what you would do in each case.   

Over-delegation. (Would you pass my medications for me and sign off my orders? Im really busy).

Under-delegation. (Ill do it myself. The nursing assistant argues with me when I ask her to do something/I always have to do it over).

Refusal to accept assignment of legitimate delegation. (I dont know how to do that very well/I have too much work already/Its always me that gets the work; ask someone else/Im too busy/I wont be able to do a very good job, but if thats what you want)

Module Course Learning Objectives (CLO)

After completing this module, students will be able to:

• Describe principles of effective delegation.
• Identify differences in delegation related to patient acuity and scope of practice.

Overview

Delegation of professional nursing tasks to others can be a very complicated duty. Some nurses avoid it by underdelegating, some might overdelegate, and others do not understand the definition of delegation. This week we will examine these concepts, as well as what is meant by accountability, authority, and responsibility. We will also begin to explore how to deal with conflicts and problems that can arise in the workplace.

 Learning Materials

• Weiss, S. A. & Tappen, R. M. (2015). Essentials of nursing leadership and management (6th ed.). F.A. Davis Company. Read chapters 7 and 8
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