Table 1 Definition of degrees of task delegation
Degree of task delegation | Definition of the degree of task delegation | Content of delegated tasks |
|---|---|---|
Minimal degree: | No responsibility for assessment in treatment or for decision-making regarding further treatment. | Staff manages laboratory tasks and clinical procedures such as drawing blood samples, measuring blood pressure and performing spirometry. |
Medium degree: | Delegated responsibility for assessment in treatment, but no responsibility for decision-making regarding further treatment. | Staff performs more complex tasks such as assessment of functional level, e.g. using an MRC scale, or manages independent consultations, e.g. counseling with regard to smoking cessation or diet and exercise. |
Maximal degree: | Delegated responsibility for assessment in treatment and/or decision-making regarding further treatment. | Staff performs highly complex tasks such as assessment of needs for initiating or adjusting COPD medication or assessment of indication for use of antibiotics. |