A nurse in an emergency department is admitting clients following an earthquake. The emergency disaster plan has been implemented due to the anticipated arrival of a large number of casualties. Which of the following clients should the nurse recommend the provider evaluate first?

Choice A rationale:

Since the client speaks a different language than the nurse, involving an interpreter is crucial to ensure effective communication during the preoperative teaching. This will help the client fully understand the procedure, potential risks, and postoperative care instructions.

Choice B rationale:

A social worker primarily addresses psychosocial needs and resources. While they play an important role, their involvement wouldn't directly address the language barrier during the preoperative teaching.

Choice C rationale:

An occupational therapist assists with physical function and daily activities. While they might be involved postoperatively, their role is not as crucial for overcoming the language barrier during preoperative teaching.

Choice D rationale:

A spiritual advisor provides support based on religious or spiritual beliefs. While emotional and spiritual support are important, their involvement in this scenario doesn't address the language barrier and the need for accurate information during preoperative teaching.

Choice A rationale:

Informing the staff of the penalties that can result from medication errors represents an authoritarian approach to managing the issue. This approach relies on authority and fear to enforce compliance. By emphasizing the potential consequences, the nurse manager is attempting to control behavior through fear of punishment. While this might create a short-term change in behavior, it does not address the root causes of the errors or promote a culture of safety.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the staff to have two nurses verify medication orders to prevent errors is not an authoritarian approach. It involves collaboration and peer support to enhance medication safety. This approach promotes shared responsibility and accountability, which are not associated with authoritarian leadership.

Choice C rationale:

Providing a suggestion box for the staff to submit ideas for error prevention is not an authoritarian approach. This strategy fosters a participative and democratic leadership style. It encourages staff engagement and input, which contrasts with the top-down nature of authoritarian leadership.

Choice D rationale:

Asking three experienced nurses to help investigate common causes of the errors is not an authoritarian approach. It involves a collaborative and problem-solving approach that seeks input from knowledgeable staff members. This approach aims to identify systemic issues contributing to errors rather than focusing solely on punitive measures.