A nurse on a medical surgical unit is caring for a group of clients with the assistance of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an assistive personnel. Which of the following tasks should the nurse assign to the LPN?

Choice A Reason:
Stating that the facility is unable to release the records, may not be accurate. Facilities typically have processes in place for releasing medical records upon request, although they may require written authorization.
Choice B Reason:
"You must submit a written request before you can receive a copy." This statement is correct. In most healthcare facilities, patients are required to submit a written request to obtain copies of their medical records. This process ensures that proper documentation is maintained and helps protect patient confidentiality and privacy. Additionally, providing medical records without proper authorization could violate healthcare privacy laws such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).
Choice C Reason:
Asking about the client's intentions with the medical record, is not appropriate as it could be seen as intrusive. Patients have the right to access their medical records for various purposes, and their intentions may not be relevant to fulfilling the request.
Choice D Reason:
Agreeing to make a copy of the medical records right away, is not the correct response without proper authorization. Making copies of medical records without following established procedures could lead to legal and ethical issues.

Choice A Reason:
Escorting the nurses to the nurses' lounge to continue the discussion is incorrect. While removing the nurses from a public area to discuss the matter further might seem like a good idea, it does not address the underlying issue of unprofessional behavior and inappropriate discussion about patient care. The charge nurse should intervene to address the situation more formally.
Choice B Reason:
Contacting the house supervisor to mediate the conflict is correct. Contacting the house supervisor ensures that the issue is escalated appropriately and that a neutral party with authority can intervene to mediate the conflict. The house supervisor can help address the nurses' concerns while emphasizing the importance of professionalism and patient-centered care.
Choice C Reason:
Recommending that both nurses be terminated is incorrect. Termination should only be considered after a thorough investigation and due process. Jumping to termination as the first course of action is inappropriate and may not be warranted in this situation, especially without understanding the full context and reasons behind the nurses' behavior.
Choice D Reason:
Making arrangements to take over the client's care is incorrect. While ensuring continuity of care for the client is important, taking over the client's care without addressing the underlying issue of unprofessional behavior and inappropriate discussion about patient care does not address the root cause of the problem. It's important to address the behavior of the nurses through appropriate channels and ensure that they understand the importance of professionalism and patient confidentiality.