A nurse is working in a clinical research trial that has a control group and an experimental group but does not know which group is receiving the active drug. Which statement best identifies the research design?

A. Call the health-care provider to see if intravenous fluids are needed: This is not usually necessary unless the patient has a condition that requires it. It's more important to ensure NPO status is maintained.

B. Increase fluid intake prior to midnight to make sure the patient remains hydrated: This could be done, but it is less important than ensuring the patient follows the NPO instructions.

C. Remove the patient's water pitcher at the bedside shortly before midnight: This is the correct answer. Removing the pitcher helps prevent the patient from accidentally drinking water and violating NPO status.

D. This is an example of a STAT order and should be documented in the patient's chart: NPO orders are not STAT orders; they are routine orders related to the preparation for a procedure.

A. “You can receive the drug in a clinical trial.” Clinical trials offer patients access to new treatments that are not yet widely available. This is a valid option for patients seeking treatments not yet approved by the FDA.

B. “I understand your frustration, have you thought of traveling to another country for the medication.” This is not an appropriate response. It doesn't provide information on the FDA approval process and may suggest that the patient should bypass U.S. regulations.

C. “Have you considered using herbal remedies.” While herbal remedies may offer some benefits, they are not a substitute for FDA-approved treatments, especially for a condition as serious as metastatic cancer.

D. “The FDA requires drugs to be scientifically researched and this can take up to 8 years.” This is accurate information. The FDA's approval process is rigorous and includes multiple phases of research to ensure a drug's safety and efficacy.