What method should a nurse manager use to evaluate an assistive personnel's understanding of a procedure after teaching?

The most effective method for evaluating an assistive personnel's understanding of a procedure after teaching is to observe the technique at random times. This approach allows the nurse manager to assess not only the knowledge of the procedure but also the ability to apply that knowledge in a real-world setting.

Observation in practice provides insight into how well the assistive personnel integrates what they have learned into actual performance, which is critical in ensuring patient safety and quality of care. Random observations help confirm that the knowledge is being consistently applied rather than just recalled for a one-time demonstration.

Utilizing this method creates an opportunity for the nurse manager to provide immediate feedback and reinforce best practices where necessary, ultimately supporting the ongoing professional development of the assistive personnel. This continuous evaluation is essential in maintaining high standards within the healthcare team.

In contrast, discussing the procedure might provide some insights into the AP's understanding but does not confirm practical application. Providing written tests can assess theoretical knowledge but may not translate to practical skill. Asking the AP to demonstrate the procedure once could confirm immediate understanding but does not ensure that the skill is retained or consistently performed over time. Random observations encompass a more comprehensive evaluation of competence in the clinical environment.