A charge nurse witnesses an assistive personnel failing to follow facility protocol when discarding contaminated linens. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Alert the infection control department
Discuss the issue with the AP
Reinforce facility protocols at the next staff meeting
Notify the unit manager about the incident
The Correct Answer is B
a. Alert the infection control department:
While the infection control department plays a role in ensuring proper infection prevention practices, directly alerting them may not be the most immediate action to take. The charge nurse should first address the issue internally before escalating it to other departments.
b. Discuss the issue with the AP:
This is the most appropriate initial action to take. Speaking directly with the assistive personnel allows the charge nurse to clarify the correct protocol, provide education or retraining if necessary, and address any misunderstandings or lapses in adherence to facility policies.
c. Reinforce facility protocols at the next staff meeting:
While reinforcing facility protocols is important, waiting until the next staff meeting may not address the immediate concern of the observed failure to follow protocol. Direct communication with the individual involved is more effective for addressing the specific incident in a timely manner.
d. Notify the unit manager about the incident:
Notifying the unit manager about the incident may be necessary if the issue persists or if further action is required beyond the initial discussion with the assistive personnel. However, it may not be the first step to take when addressing an isolated incident.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Decreased level of consciousness:
This finding is concerning and may indicate worsening neurological status, increased intracranial pressure, or impending herniation. A decreased level of consciousness requires immediate evaluation by the provider to assess for neurological deterioration and potential interventions to stabilize the client's condition.
b. Increased temperature:
While an increased temperature (fever) is commonly associated with meningitis due to the inflammatory response, it may not necessarily require immediate reporting unless it is extremely high or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Fever management is important, but it may not warrant immediate provider notification unless it is severe or refractory to treatment.
c. Generalized rash over trunk:
A generalized rash can be associated with certain types of meningitis, such as meningococcal meningitis, and may indicate sepsis or disseminated infection. However, it may not always require immediate provider notification unless it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms or signs of systemic illness.
d. Report of photophobia:
Photophobia (sensitivity to light) is a common symptom of meningitis and is often reported by clients. While photophobia is significant in the context of meningitis, it may not require immediate provider notification unless it is severe or accompanied by other worrisome neurological symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Document an objective description of the situation:
It is important to start by documenting the observed behavior objectively. This documentation can serve as a factual record of the incident.
b. Schedule a formal meeting with the LPN within 48 hours:
While addressing the issue promptly is important, scheduling a formal meeting should come after documenting the situation. The initial step is to gather information and document observations.
c. Interview clients about the nurse’s actions:
Interviewing clients may be necessary later in the investigation process, but the immediate action should be to document the observed behavior and then proceed with a more formal investigation if needed.
d. Check the unit narcotic records for discrepancies:
The issue at hand appears to be related to alcohol use rather than narcotics. While discrepancies in narcotic records might be a concern, it may not be the most relevant action based on the situation described.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today