DELEGATION

Definition
1. Delegation can be defined simply as getting work done through others
or as directing the performance of one or more people to accomplish
organizational goals
2. The ANA defines delegation as the transfer of responsibility for the
performance of a task from one person toanother.
3. The NCBSN defines delegation as transferring to a competent individual
the authority to perform a selected nursing task in a selected situation.

Delegation is an essential element of the directing phase of the management

process because much of the work accomplished by managers (first-, middle-,and
top-level) occurs not only through their own efforts but also through those oftheir
subordinates. For the manager, delegation is not an option but a necessity.
Frequently, there is too much work to be accomplished by one person. In these
situations, delegation often becomes synonymous with productivity.