What is one of the primary duties of a nurse in a healthcare setting?

The primary duty of a nurse in a healthcare setting involves the delegation of tasks to certified personnel. Nurses are responsible for assessing patient needs, planning care, and coordinating with other members of the healthcare team. This includes determining which tasks are appropriate to delegate to other certified staff, such as nursing assistants or support personnel, ensuring that patient care is delivered effectively and safely.

Delegation is a critical function because it allows nurses to manage their time efficiently while ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care. They must also supervise the delegated tasks and evaluate the outcomes to ensure that the standards of care are maintained. The ability to delegate appropriately balances the workload and fosters collaboration within the healthcare team, ultimately enhancing patient care.

The other choices, while related to healthcare, do not encompass the primary roles of a nurse. Performing surgeries is typically within the domain of surgeons and doctors. Filling medication prescriptions is the role of pharmacists. Conducting laboratory tests is primarily done by laboratory technicians and specialized staff. These distinctions highlight the unique role that nurses play in patient care and healthcare management.