Which of the following describes appropriate delegation?

Delegation is fundamentally about assigning tasks or responsibilities to others while ensuring that there is clarity and understanding about those tasks. When delegation is based on clear communication, it fosters an environment where expectations, responsibilities, and objectives are well articulated. This allows the individual receiving the delegated task to understand exactly what is required of them, leading to better outcomes in patient care and team efficiency.

Effective delegation involves not just assigning tasks, but also conveying the context and importance of those tasks. When communication is clear, it minimizes the risk of errors and misunderstandings, which are critical in healthcare settings. Moreover, it ensures that the personnel involved are adequately prepared to take on the responsibilities, which is integral for maintaining safety and quality of care.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of effective delegation in a healthcare context. For instance, stating that delegation increases the nurse's workload contradicts the fundamental intention of delegation, which is to redistribute tasks more effectively. Similarly, while delegation may limit the nurse’s liability under certain circumstances, it does not eliminate the need for accountability in the supervisory role. Lastly, effective delegation typically requires supervision, especially in nursing, to ensure that the delegated tasks are performed correctly and any complexities are properly managed.