The delegating physician is accountable for the decision to delegate. By accepting the delegation, the registered nurse is accountable for performing the delegated service competently. Nurses and physicians must meet competency standards for knowledge, skills, attitude and judgement to engage in the delegation of physician services. The physician must possess the required competencies for the particular service in order to delegate the service. The registered nurse must possess the required competencies in order to accept the delegation.
Competence is attained through education and practice.
Competence is maintained through practice and a commitment to life long learning. Competence is best achieved when there are sufficient opportunities to practice over time. A process must be in place to ensure continued competence. Safeguards must be in place to protect patients from incompetent and unethical practice. The delegating physicians must be satisfied that registered nurses accepting the delegation meet the required competencies.