Is delegation allowed for medication administration?

Delegation for medication administration is indeed allowed under specified guidelines, making it permissible in certain circumstances. The Washington State Department of Health has established regulations that outline when and how nurses can delegate the administration of medications. Delegation is typically permitted for certain types of medications if the caregiver has received appropriate training and the delegating nurse has followed all necessary protocols. This could include oral medications, topical medications, and sometimes others, depending on the rules governing the practice.

The guidelines dictate that before medications can be delegated, the nurse must assess the situation, ensure that the medication is stable for delegation, and confirm that the unlicensed individual is competent to administer it safely and effectively. This process helps to maintain patient safety while still allowing for flexibility in care provision.

The other choices do not reflect the nuances of delegation as defined by the state's regulations. For instance, asserting that delegation is never allowed fails to recognize the established protocols that do enable it under certain conditions. Saying that it is only allowed in emergencies restricts the broader scope of delegation that can occur under regular circumstances. Claiming it is limited only to oral medications overlooks the variety of forms that can be safely delegated following proper guidelines.