A nurse is reviewing legal principles associated with nursing practice.
Which of the following is an example of negligence?

Choice A rationale

Directly asking a colleague if they are impaired is not the most appropriate initial action as it can lead to defensiveness or denial and may not effectively address the safety concerns. The priority is patient safety, which requires reporting to a higher authority who can intervene objectively and professionally.

Choice B rationale

Notifying the nurse manager is the most appropriate action. The nurse manager has the responsibility and authority to address concerns about a chemically impaired colleague. They can initiate the proper procedures, including investigation, intervention, and referral to employee assistance programs, ensuring patient safety and colleague support.

Choice C rationale

Contacting risk management is not the immediate first step. While risk management might become involved later, the direct supervisor or nurse manager is the initial point of contact for personnel issues that pose a potential risk to patient safety. The manager can then involve other departments as needed.

Choice D rationale

Confronting the colleague directly about the suspicion is generally not advisable. This approach can be confrontational, potentially escalating the situation without resolving the underlying issue. It may also violate professional boundaries and lacks the formal authority needed for effective intervention.

Choice A rationale

Knowledge of the scope of practice for each team member is fundamental for effective interprofessional collaboration. It ensures that tasks are delegated appropriately, avoids duplication of effort, and prevents individuals from performing outside their legal and ethical boundaries. This understanding fosters mutual respect and optimizes patient outcomes by leveraging diverse expertise.

Choice B rationale

While understanding individual learning styles can facilitate internal team education, it is not the primary factor for effective day-to-day interprofessional functioning. The core of interprofessional collaboration relies more on understanding roles, responsibilities, and communication strategies rather than pedagogical approaches for team member instruction in a dynamic clinical setting.

Choice C rationale

Attempting to perform the tasks of other team members undermines their professional autonomy and expertise. Interprofessional collaboration emphasizes shared decision-making and mutual respect for distinct roles, not cross-performance of all duties. Each discipline brings specialized knowledge, and maintaining these boundaries ensures high-quality, comprehensive care delivery.

Choice D rationale

Personal opinions about other team members' roles can introduce bias and hinder objective collaboration. Professionalism within an interprofessional team necessitates focusing on evidence-based practice and respecting the defined roles and contributions of all members, irrespective of personal preferences, to maintain a cohesive and effective healthcare environment.