ABSTRACT
There is a change in the dynamics of healthcare provisions and more work is now being undertaken by healthcare assistants and support workers. Delegation is an area of concern to most health professionals. In particular there is a concern when delegating to non-regulated health professionals. It has become a daily task for health professionals to delegate to staff under their supervision. Health professionals responsible for delegating tasks must ensure that those undertaking the tasks have the knowledge, skills and experience to carry out the task safely, effectively and are adequately trained. They must ensure the tasks allocated are appropriate to the individuals and adequate supervision is provided. The health professional who delegates to another remains accountable for the appropriateness of that delegation and for ensuring that the tasks have been undertaken competently in order to promote optimum health outcomes for the patient.
