What is the nurse's legal obligation regarding assistive personnel (AP) actions?

The nurse is legally responsible for the actions of the assistive personnel (AP) because the nurse retains accountability for the overall care provided to the patient. When tasks are delegated to APs, the nurse must ensure that those tasks are appropriate and within the scope of practice for the AP. This includes providing adequate supervision and guidance regarding the delegated tasks. Even when tasks are performed by APs, the nurse must be prepared to assess the outcomes and intervene as necessary.

This responsibility underscores the importance of clear communication and establishing appropriate boundaries regarding the roles of both the nurse and APs. It also reflects the legal framework surrounding nursing practice, where the nurse must ensure patient safety and the quality of care delivered, regardless of who is performing specific tasks. The nurse's role in overseeing AP actions and maintaining accountability is a critical aspect of safe and effective patient care.