A nurse is discussing the process of evidence-based practice with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following information should the nurse include when discussing a PICOT question?

A. A patient with coronary artery disease (CAD) who reports chest pain radiating to the jaw: This patient should be evaluated first. Chest pain radiating to the jaw can be a sign of a heart attack, which is a life-threatening condition. Immediate medical attention is required to prevent further damage to the heart muscle.

B. A patient with venous insufficiency with 2+ pitting edema: While this patient’s condition needs to be addressed, it is not as immediately life-threatening as a potential heart attack. Venous insufficiency and edema can lead to discomfort and complications if left untreated, but these complications are typically not immediate.

C. A patient receiving enoxaparin (Lovenox) for experiencing an MI 3 days ago: This patient is already receiving treatment for their condition. While they should be monitored for side effects of the medication and signs of further cardiac issues, they are not the highest priority based on the information given.

D. A patient with peripheral artery disease (PAD) with a diminished pulse: While a diminished pulse can indicate poor blood flow, which can lead to complications such as tissue damage and non-healing wounds, it is not as immediately life-threatening as a potential heart attack. This patient should be evaluated, but they are not the highest priority based on the information given.

(A) Correctly identify clients prior to administering medications: This is a key goal of the National Patient Safety Goals (NPSGs). Correctly identifying patients before administering medications helps to prevent medication errors and ensures patient safety.

(B) Educate clients about health promotion and prevention: While this is an important aspect of nursing care, it is not specifically listed as a National Patient Safety Goal.

(c) Prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections in clients: Preventing healthcare-associated infections, including catheter-associated urinary tract infections, is a major focus of the NPSGs.

(D) Improve communication among staff members: Effective communication among healthcare providers is crucial for patient safety and is a key goal of the NPSGs.

(E) Increase job satisfaction for staff members: While job satisfaction can indirectly impact patient safety, it is not a specific goal of the NPSGs. The NPSGs are primarily focused on direct measures to improve patient safety.