An RN delegates the task of taking a newly admitted client's vital signs to an unregulated care provider (UCP) .The client is told his blood pressure is 182/98,but it does not get reported to the physician for several hours.Who is responsible for the lapse in time between discovery and action?

A) Nurse manager
B) UCP
C) Client
D) RN

The RN who delegated the task is ultimately responsible for ensuring timely reporting of abnormal vital signs to the physician. It is important for the RN to follow up with the UCP and ensure that the physician has been notified promptly. The nurse manager may also be responsible for ensuring that appropriate delegation policies and procedures are in place and that staff are trained to follow them. The client may have some responsibility for reporting symptoms or concerns, but ultimately it is the responsibility of the healthcare team to monitor and respond appropriately to changes in the client's condition.