According to Hersey's Situational Leadership Model, what type of leadership behavior should a nurse use when delegating tasks to competent and motivated unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

In Hersey's Situational Leadership Model, the effectiveness of a leader's behavior should align with the level of readiness and ability of the team members being led. When delegating tasks to competent and motivated unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP), the most fitting leadership behavior is participating. This approach recognizes that the UAP possesses the skills and motivation needed to perform tasks effectively, thereby enabling the nurse to involve them in decision-making processes while still providing the necessary support.

In a participating leadership style, the leader encourages collaboration and open communication, which fosters an environment of trust and empowerment. In this scenario, the nurse can facilitate an exchange of ideas and feedback, allowing the UAP to feel more engaged in their work and take ownership of their responsibilities. This approach is beneficial as it not only enhances the efficiency of task delegation but also promotes professional growth among the UAP.

Other leadership styles, such as directing or coaching, might not be as effective in this context since those strategies are more suited to situations where the team members require closer supervision or further development of skills. The delegating style, while seemingly appropriate, may imply a lesser degree of involvement than what is optimal for fostering a motivated and engaged team environment.