What is the definition of delegation according to the ANA Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice glossary?

Delegation is the transfer of responsibility for performing a task from one individual to another while retaining accountability for the outcome. In nursing, an RN delegating a task transfers the responsibility for that task but keeps professional accountability for the overall care.

According to the glossary in Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice, 3rd Ed., delegation is defined as the transfer of responsibility for the performance of a task from one individual to another while retaining accountability for the outcome. The glossary gives the example of a registered nurse delegating a task to an assistive individual: the RN transfers responsibility for performing the task but retains professional accountability for the overall care.