What must South Carolina nurses do when asked to perform a task outside of their competency?

When nurses in South Carolina are asked to perform a task outside of their competency, the most appropriate course of action is to refuse to perform the task. This aligns with the ethical and professional standards that govern nursing practice, which prioritize patient safety and the nurse's accountability for their skills and knowledge.

Nurses are responsible for understanding the scope of their practice, which is defined by both state laws and institutional policies. If a task is beyond their training or expertise, undertaking it can pose risks to patient safety and potentially lead to legal or disciplinary consequences for the nurse. Professional practice guidelines emphasize that nurses should only perform duties for which they are adequately prepared and trained.

Thus, in circumstances where a nurse feels unqualified to perform a requested task, the responsibility lies in declining to do so and seeking guidance or assistance from a superior or appropriate resource. This ensures that patients receive safe and competent care while also maintaining the integrity of the nursing profession.