A nurse realizes they made an incorrect entry in a patient’s medication administration record. What is the appropriate action for the nurse to take?

Choice A rationale
Feeding a stroke client who has difficulty in swallowing is a task that requires careful attention to prevent aspiration and choking. While this task is important, it can be delegated to a trained nursing assistant or a licensed practical nurse (LPN) under the supervision of an RN. The RN should focus on tasks that require higher levels of clinical judgment and expertise.
Choice B rationale
Completing a sterile dressing change to a pressure ulcer is a task that requires the expertise and clinical judgment of an RN. Sterile dressing changes involve maintaining a sterile field, assessing the wound, and applying appropriate dressings. This task is critical for preventing infection and promoting wound healing, making it appropriate for the RN to perform.
Choice C rationale
Reapplying a condom catheter for a client with urinary incontinence is a routine procedure that can be delegated to a trained nursing assistant or an LPN. This task does not require the advanced clinical skills and judgment of an RN, allowing the RN to focus on more complex and critical tasks.
Choice D rationale
Reinforcing teaching with a client who is learning how to administer insulin is an important task, but it can be delegated to an LPN under the supervision of an RN. The RN should prioritize tasks that require higher levels of clinical expertise and judgment, such as sterile dressing changes and complex assessments.

Choice A rationale
Correcting the physician’s orders to match the chart is not within the nurse’s scope of practice. Nurses should not alter physician orders.
Choice B rationale
Ignoring the discrepancy is not appropriate. Nurses have a responsibility to ensure patient safety and accurate documentation.
Choice C rationale
Documenting the discrepancy but taking no further action does not address the potential risk to patient safety. Further action is necessary.
Choice D rationale
Documenting the discrepancy and notifying the physician is the correct course of action. This ensures that the physician is aware of the issue and can make any necessary corrections.