If an assistive personnel refuses to perform a delegated task, what should the nurse do first?

When an assistive personnel (AP) refuses to perform a delegated task, the nurse's primary responsibility is to ensure that patient care is not compromised while also addressing the concerns of the AP. Performing the task themselves is a critical initial action, as it ensures that the necessary care is provided immediately without delay. This approach prioritizes patient safety and upholds the standards of care.

Following the immediate action of performing the task, it is essential for the nurse to explore the reasons behind the AP's refusal to ensure that any issues, such as lack of training, unclear delegation, or concerns about the task, are addressed appropriately in subsequent discussions. This promotes a collaborative team environment and may prevent similar situations from occurring in the future while fostering effective communication among team members.