As the RN team leader, identify all potential challenges of using team

QUESTION

As the RN team leader, identify all potential challenges of using team nursing to deliver care to assigned clients. Select all that apply.

1. Delegation and increased accountability
2. Cost savings with staffing needs
3. Continuity of care per team
4. Communication among staff
5. RN time availability to the patient

ANSWER:

Answer: 1; 3; 5
Rationale:
• Delegation and accountability: The RN team leader delegates frequently with team nursing, and with delegation comes an increased accountability for care given by someone else.
• Cost savings for staffing: Personnel costs are lower with team nursing, so this would be an advantage of team nursing.
• Continuity of care: Continuity of care can suffer when care is given by more than one person, so this is a disadvantage.
• Communication among staff: Communication among staff usually is improved with team nursing, as each member communicates with clients, families, and each other. This is an advantage of team nursing.
• RN time availability: The RN has less time available at the client’s bedside, so this is a disadvantage of team nursing.