On many occasions the decision to delegate will be a straightforward one, clarity on each element of the framework providing an obvious choice to delegate, that optimises the skill of the nursing or midwifery team and enhances personal experience.
Where a decision to delegate is more complex and requires critical analysis and direction, it will be helpful to use the Decision Support Matrix , click to view.
How to use the Decision Support Matrix (Table 1)
Having confirmed that the assumptions of the framework are in place, think through each of the eight criteria in column 1 of the Decision Support Matrix under the three domains of: potential for patient/client harm, complexity of care and predictability of outcome. Consider the prompts outlined under ‘low risk of harm’, ‘medium risk of harm’ and ‘high risk of harm’ and use the colour coding to guide your decision, which may include further activity to mitigate risk and support a safe and effective decision to delegate.
| Green – Low Risk | Green and Amber – Medium Risk | Red – High Risk |
| Delegate task or duty |
Mitigating supportive actions and or professional judgement required Delegate task or duty if decision can be supported. Do not delegate if decision cannot be supported. |
Do not delegate task or duty. |