A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about delegating tasks to assistive personnel. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

a. A client is refusing care from assistive personnel of the opposite gender:

This situation involves the client's right to refuse care based on personal preferences or cultural beliefs. While it requires attention and respect for the client's wishes, it may not pose an immediate risk to patient care or staff safety.

b. No transport assistance is available to take a client to physical therapy:

This can be resolved by contacting the transportation department or finding an alternative solution, but it is not a critical issue that requires immediate attention.

c. Two nurses had a heated disagreement about a scheduling issue:

While workplace conflicts should be addressed to promote a positive work environment, a heated disagreement about a scheduling issue may not pose an immediate threat to patient care. However, if the disagreement escalates or affects staff morale, it could impact unit functioning and require intervention.

d. Three staff members have called to say they will be absent:

This situation has the most immediate impact on the overall functioning of the unit. Staffing shortages can affect patient care and safety, so it is crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure adequate coverage and maintain the quality of care.

a. Assault:

Assault involves the threat of bodily harm or unwanted physical contact that creates fear or apprehension in the victim. In this scenario, there is no indication of a threat being made against the client; instead, the nurse administers the medication without their consent.

b. Libel:

Libel refers to a false written statement that damages a person's reputation. This option is not applicable to the scenario described, as it does not involve written communication or defamation of character.

c. Battery:

Battery occurs when there is unauthorized physical contact with another person that results in harm or offense. In this scenario, the nurse administers the injection against the client's will, which constitutes unauthorized physical contact, making it an example of battery.

d. False imprisonment:

False imprisonment involves unlawfully restraining or confining a person against their will. While administering medication without consent could potentially be perceived as a form of restraint, false imprisonment typically involves physical confinement or restriction of movement, which is not the case in this scenario.