A nurse manager is providing an inservice program about delegation to assistive personnel (AP) with staff nurses on the unit. Which of the following statements by a staff nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of delegation principles. Typically, the original delegating nurse is responsible for ensuring that the task is completed correctly and safely. APs are not authorized to re-delegate tasks to other APs. The nurse must ensure that the task is assigned appropriately and directly to the right individual, considering their qualifications and experience.
B. This statement demonstrates an understanding of proper delegation practices. When delegating tasks, the nurse should indeed consider the AP's level of experience and competence. Delegating tasks based on the AP's skills ensures that the tasks are performed safely and effectively, aligning with the principle that delegation should be based on the qualifications and experience of the person to whom the task is assigned.
C. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of accountability in delegation. When a nurse delegates a task to an AP, the nurse does not relinquish accountability for client outcomes. The nurse remains accountable for ensuring that the task is delegated appropriately and that the care provided meets professional standards.
D. This statement indicates a misunderstanding of the AP’s role. APs typically do not provide client
education, as this requires specialized knowledge and assessment skills that are within the scope of practice of licensed nurses. Client education, especially about self-care, is generally performed by registered nurses who can assess the client’s understanding and provide detailed instructions.

A. An advanced beginner nurse is someone who has moved beyond the novice stage but still lacks the experience and confidence of an expert nurse. Precepting new staff members usually requires a higher level of expertise, so this choice is not the best fit for a preceptor role.
B. They possess a high level of intuition and can make complex decisions quickly based on a wealth of experience. Experts are often seen as leaders, mentors, and preceptors because they have the knowledge and skill to guide others effectively.
C. A proficient nurse is skilled and experienced but not at the expert level. While proficiency is important for precepting, being an expert is typically the most appropriate stage for someone responsible for teaching and guiding new staff members.

D. Competent nurses are competent at performing their job duties, but they may not have the level of expertise and experience required to effectively precept and mentor new staff members.