A nurse is providing an in-service to a group of newly licensed nurses on standards of practice and the role of the Board of Nursing (BON). Which of the following information should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale:

The novice-to-expert model for nursing competence includes several stages, and the "novice" stage represents a beginner who has limited experience and lacks clinical support. This stage typically involves individuals who are just starting their nursing careers and are in the early phases of learning.

Choice B rationale:

An "advanced beginner" is the next stage in the novice-to-expert model. This stage is characterized by individuals who have gained some experience and can perform tasks with increased competence. However, they still require clinical support and guidance in certain situations. It's a transitional phase between complete novice and more proficient levels of competence.

Choice C rationale:

The "proficient" stage in the model represents nurses who have acquired a higher level of competence and are capable of handling a wide range of situations. They do not require the same level of clinical support as those in the advanced beginner stage.

Choice D rationale:

The "competent" stage represents nurses who have reached a high level of competence and can function effectively in most situations without continuous clinical support. They are highly skilled and experienced in their practice.

Choice A rationale:

Rounding the amount to be administered to the nearest whole number is a step that may be necessary, but it should not be the first action taken. The nurse should first ensure that the dosage calculation is accurate and based on the client's weight in kilograms. Once the dosage in milligrams is calculated, rounding can be considered.

Choice B rationale:

Calculating the dosage in milligrams is an essential step, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. To determine the correct dosage in milligrams, the nurse needs to convert the client's weight from pounds to kilograms first, as the medication order is given in milligrams per kilogram.

Choice C rationale:

Calculating the dosage in milliliters is not the first action to take because the medication is available in milligrams, and the order is based on weight in kilograms. Converting the weight to kilograms is the initial step to ensure that the dose is calculated correctly.

Choice D rationale:

Converting the client's weight to kilograms is the first and most crucial step in this dosage calculation. The medication order is given in milligrams per kilogram, and the client's weight is provided in pounds. To ensure accurate dosing, the nurse must convert the weight to kilograms, as this is the foundation for calculating the correct dosage in milligrams.