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. While burnout can certainly impact communication, it's more of a consequence of poor communication and teamwork rather than a direct barrier to it. Addressing communication issues can help mitigate burnout.
B. Privacy laws are essential to protect patient information but are not inherently barriers to communication. Effective communication can occur while maintaining patient privacy.
C. This is a direct barrier to interprofessional communication. If team members don't understand each other's responsibilities, it can lead to confusion, duplication of efforts, and a breakdown in communication.
D. While understanding scope of practice is crucial for effective collaboration, it's not a barrier to communication itself. In fact, clear role definitions can enhance communication.

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.