A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is caring for a group of children. Which of the following findings should alert the nurse that one of the children is a potential victim of abuse?

Explanation:

A. "We use an automated dispensing device to track the use of controlled substances."

This is a valid statement. Automated dispensing devices (ADDs) help track the use of controlled substances by requiring users to log in, record transactions, and provide an audit trail of medication access.

B. "You are required to have a second nurse witness disposal of a controlled substance."

Having a second nurse witness disposal of controlled substances is a common practice to ensure accountability and prevent diversion. This statement aligns with safety protocols.

C. “If a client refuses a medication, you can place it in your pocket to administer later."

This statement is incorrect and potentially dangerous. Controlled substances should never be pocketed or carried around for later administration, as this increases the risk of diversion and compromises medication safety.

D. "Activities of the automated dispensing machine will be reviewed periodically."

Reviewing the activities of the automated dispensing machine is an essential part of medication safety and helps detect any discrepancies or irregularities in medication access and administration.

E. "We count the amount of a controlled substance available before removal from a medication drawer."

Counting the amount of controlled substances before removal from a medication drawer is a standard procedure to ensure accurate inventory management and detect any discrepancies or losses promptly.

Explanation:

A. "Reliance on personal experiences is important to the process of EBP."

This statement is not accurate in the context of evidence-based practice (EBP). EBP emphasizes the use of the best available evidence from research, combined with clinical expertise and patient values and preferences. While personal experiences can provide context, they should not be the primary basis for decision-making in EBP.

B. "Identifying the problem is the first step of the EBP process."

This statement is correct. The first step in the EBP process is identifying a clinical problem or question that requires evidence-based intervention or decision-making. This step involves clearly defining the issue and understanding its significance.

C. "Reviewing the effectiveness of the findings is the last step of the EBP process."

This statement is not accurate. While evaluating the effectiveness of the chosen intervention or practice change is an essential component of EBP, it is not necessarily the last step. EBP involves an iterative process where findings are continuously evaluated, integrated into practice, and refined based on ongoing evidence and outcomes.

D. "There are four steps in the process of EBP."

This statement is not entirely accurate. While different models and frameworks may outline EBP in different steps or stages, it typically involves multiple steps that include formulating a clinical question, searching for evidence, critically appraising the evidence, applying the evidence to practice, and evaluating outcomes.