A nurse is uncharacteristically extroverted on today's shift, with an unsteady gait. The manager suspects that the nurse may be chemically Impaired. What is the manager's most appropriate action?
Promptly confront the nurse to discuss this suspicion
Ask the other nurses and staff members on the unit if they have noticed the same thing
Document this finding and communicate with the personnel department
Monitor the nurse's behavior closely for the remainder of the shift
The Correct Answer is D
A. While it is important to address concerns about impairment, confronting the nurse directly can be counterproductive and may escalate the situation. It is essential to approach the situation with caution and follow established protocols for dealing with suspected substance impairment.
B. While gathering observations from colleagues may seem reasonable, it can create a culture of gossip and may violate confidentiality. This approach can also lead to misinformation and should not be the first step in addressing a serious concern about a colleague's safety and well-being.
C. Documenting observations is important, but it should not be the sole action taken at this point. Communicating with the personnel department is part of the process if the situation escalates, but immediate action is necessary to ensure patient safety.
D. This option is the most appropriate initial action. By closely monitoring the nurse’s behavior, the manager can gather more information before taking further steps. This approach allows for the collection of objective data and ensures patient safety while avoiding premature accusations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a typical finding during a sickle cell crisis. In fact, during a crisis, the child may exhibit tachycardia (increased heart rate) due to pain, stress, and potential hypoxia.
B. While constipation can be a complication in children with sickle cell disease (often related to pain medications or dehydration), it is not a primary symptom of a sickle cell crisis itself. The immediate concerns in a crisis are related to pain and vaso-occlusive episodes.
C. High fever is not a direct symptom of a sickle cell crisis. Although children with sickle cell disease are at increased risk for infections, which can cause fever, a fever is not a typical finding specifically related to a sickle cell crisis. It is essential to assess for infection, especially if fever is present.
D. Pain is the hallmark symptom of a sickle cell crisis, often referred to as a vaso-occlusive crisis. The sickle-shaped red blood cells can block blood flow in small vessels, leading to severe pain in various parts of the body, such as the chest, abdomen, and joints.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While this situation raises ethical considerations, particularly regarding adolescent confidentiality, the nurse is not justified in overriding the client's right to confidentiality solely based on the request. In many jurisdictions, minors may have the right to confidentiality about reproductive health issues, though this can vary.
B. The nurse is generally required to respect this client's confidentiality. Unless there is a specific safety concern (e.g., domestic violence), the nurse should honor the client's request to keep this information private. Confidentiality should be upheld unless there is a clear and immediate risk of harm.
C. In this situation, the nurse may be justified in overriding the client’s confidentiality due to the disclosure of potential abuse. Healthcare professionals are often mandated reporters in cases of suspected abuse or neglect, particularly involving vulnerable populations such as older adults. The nurse has a duty to report this situation to ensure the safety of the client.
D. A client's wish not to know their diagnostic results does not justify overriding their confidentiality. The nurse must respect the client’s autonomy and decision-making regarding their own health information. The nurse should provide support and discuss the implications of this decision but should not disclose the results without the client’s consent.
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