Responsibility
Frequently when discussing delegation, RNs will comment: If I am responsible for someone else's work, I would rather do it myself. This statement infers that one is liable or has to answer for the actions of another. The ANA has stated that responsibility involves liability with the performance of duties in a specific role (ANA Code of Ethics, 2001). Responsibility is a two-way process that is both allocated and accepted (Creative Health Care Management, 2008). Assistive personnel accept responsibility when they agree to perform an activity delegated to them.
Accountability
Accountability involves a retrospective review which includes critical thinking to determine if the action was appropriate and giving an answer for what has occurred. RNs demonstrate accountability when they answer both for themselves and for others regarding their actions (ANA Code of Ethics, 2001). RNs assure appropriate accountability by verifying that the receiving person accepts the delegation and accompanying responsibility (NCSBN and ANA, 2006).