Final answer:
When a nurse delegates a specific intervention to a UAP, it leads to increased workload, reduced accountability, and a transfer of responsibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse delegates a specific intervention to a UAP (Unlicensed Assistive Personnel), it has implications for the nurse in terms of increased workload, reduced accountability, and transfer of responsibility.
- Increased workload: Delegating a task to a UAP does not eliminate the nurse's involvement entirely. The nurse is still responsible for assessing and evaluating the UAP's performance, which can add to their workload.
- Reduced accountability: While the nurse may delegate tasks, they ultimately retain accountability for the UAP's actions. The nurse must ensure that the UAP is competent and provide appropriate supervision.
- Transfer of responsibility: Delegation involves transferring specific tasks to the UAP while maintaining ultimate responsibility for the patient's overall care. The nurse remains responsible for coordinating care and making critical decisions.