A nurse is planning educational materials for a client who has a new pacemaker.
Which of the following information should the nurse include?

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale:

Forming a committee of staff members to investigate current staffing issues is the first step the nurse manager should take. This is because it is important to understand the root cause of the problem before implementing any changes. The committee can gather data, identify patterns, and provide insights into why staffing for weekend shifts is a challenge. This could involve surveying staff members, reviewing shift patterns, and analyzing workload and patient acuity data. By involving staff members in the process, the nurse manager can ensure that the perspectives and experiences of those directly affected by the staffing issues are taken into account. This approach aligns with the principles of shared governance and participatory management, which have been shown to improve staff satisfaction and retention.

Choice B rationale:

While providing support to staff members who are resistant to staffing changes is an important part of change management, it is not the first step that should be taken. Resistance to change is often a symptom of deeper issues, such as lack of trust, poor communication, or perceived lack of fairness or respect. By first forming a committee to investigate the staffing issues (Choice A), the nurse manager can gain a better understanding of these underlying issues and address them directly. This can help to reduce resistance when changes are implemented.

Choice C rationale:

Scheduling a staff meeting to present different options to staff members is a key part of the change process, but it should not be the first step. Before presenting options, it is important to fully understand the problem and consider various possible solutions. This involves investigating the current staffing issues (Choice A) and potentially developing and evaluating different scheduling options. Once this has been done, the options can be presented to staff members for feedback and discussion.

Choice D rationale:

Giving staff members advance written notice of staffing changes is a crucial part of transparent and respectful communication. However, it is not the first step in addressing staffing issues. Before any changes can be announced, the nurse manager needs to understand the problem (Choice A), consider possible solutions, and involve staff members in the decision-making process (Choice C). Once a decision has been made, it should be communicated clearly and promptly to all staff members.

Choice A rationale:

Tightening the tubing connections may be necessary if there is a leak in the ventilator system, but it does not address the high-pressure alarm issue. The nurse needs to address the immediate alarm situation first.

Choice B rationale:

Requesting insertion of a tracheostomy tube is not the appropriate action for a high-pressure alarm on the ventilator. Tracheostomy tube insertion is a significant procedure that is not indicated solely based on a high-pressure alarm.

Choice C rationale:

Suctioning the client's airway is the correct action for a high-pressure alarm on the ventilator. The alarm indicates an obstruction in the airway, and suctioning can help clear any secretions or blockages, allowing the client to breathe more effectively.

Choice D rationale:

Looking for a leak in the tube's cuff may be necessary if the high-pressure alarm persists after suctioning and checking connections. Identifying and repairing any leaks can prevent further issues with ventilation. However, immediate action should be taken to clear the airway first, as indicated by suctioning.