A client with frequent watery stools and a possible Clostridium difficile infection is hospitalized with dehydration. Which nursing action should the charge nurse assign to an LPN?

Performing assessments of the client's hydration status.

Administering the prescribed metronidazole 500 mg orally to the client.

Reviewing client's medical history for any risk factors for diarrhea.

Explaining the purpose of the ordered stool cultures to the client and family.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   While LPNs can perform some assessments, the charge nurse should assign this task to an RN. Assessing hydration status requires critical thinking and a comprehensive understanding of the client's overall clinical condition, which typically falls within the RN’s scope of practice.
B.   Administering medications, including antibiotics like metronidazole, is within the scope of practice for LPNs. As long as the LPN is competent in administering medications and there are no specific contraindications for the client, this task can be appropriately assigned.
C.   This task involves critical thinking and comprehensive analysis of the client's medical history, which is typically conducted by an RN. While LPNs may review aspects of the medical history, the charge nurse should assign more complex evaluations and assessments to RNs.
D.   While LPNs can provide some patient education, explaining the rationale behind specific tests, especially in the context of complex infections, typically requires the knowledge and expertise of an RN. This task may involve more detailed clinical reasoning and the ability to address specific questions and concerns that the client or family may have.

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]

Explanation

A. This task is appropriate for UAP, as it involves basic hygiene care. UAP can assist with routine oral care
B. Assisting with repositioning is a basic care activity that UAP can perform. This helps prevent pressure ulcers and maintains client comfort, and it does not require advanced clinical skills.
C. Administering IV fluids or medications requires specialized training and knowledge of nursing assessments, potential complications, and monitoring. This task should only be performed by a licensed nurse, not by UAP.
D. UAP can document basic measurements such as urine output. This is a straightforward task that does not require clinical judgment, but the UAP should understand how to accurately measure and record this information.
E. While UAP can observe and report general changes, monitoring for clinical indications of dehydration requires nursing assessment skills and judgment. This task should be performed by an RN, as it involves interpreting signs and symptoms.
F. UAP can weigh clients, but the assessment of weight trends requires clinical judgment and interpretation of data. The RN should evaluate and interpret this information to determine its significance in the client's care.

A. Promptly confront the nurse to discuss this suspicion B. Ask the other nurses and staff members on the unit if they have noticed the same thing C. Document this finding and communicate with the personnel department D. Monitor the nurse's behavior closely for the remainder of the shift

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. While it is important to address concerns about impairment, confronting the nurse directly can be counterproductive and may escalate the situation. It is essential to approach the situation with caution and follow established protocols for dealing with suspected substance impairment.
B. While gathering observations from colleagues may seem reasonable, it can create a culture of gossip and may violate confidentiality. This approach can also lead to misinformation and should not be the first step in addressing a serious concern about a colleague's safety and well-being.
C. Documenting observations is important, but it should not be the sole action taken at this point. Communicating with the personnel department is part of the process if the situation escalates, but immediate action is necessary to ensure patient safety.
D. This option is the most appropriate initial action. By closely monitoring the nurse’s behavior, the manager can gather more information before taking further steps. This approach allows for the collection of objective data and ensures patient safety while avoiding premature accusations.

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A client with frequent watery stools and a possible Clostridium difficile infection is hospitalized with dehydration. Which nursing action should the charge nurse assign to an LPN?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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