A patient dies after suffering a severe cerebrovascular accident (CVA). The family members are informed of his demise and are at the bedside. What documentation should be noted in the patient's medical record? (Select all that apply.)
Time vital signs ceased
Results of the autopsy
Why the patient died
Official time of death
Who pronounced the patient
Correct Answer : A,D,E
A. Time vital signs ceased. Documenting the time at which vital signs ceased is important for medical and legal documentation. This helps establish the timeline of events leading to death and can be relevant for determining the official time of death.
B. Results of the autopsy. While an autopsy may provide valuable information, it is not typically documented at the time of death unless available. Autopsy results are generally included later after they are completed, not immediately after death.
C. Why the patient died. While the cause of death is often determined, it is generally not the nurse's role to speculate or document the reason for death in the medical record at the time of death. It is more appropriate for the physician or coroner to document the cause.
D. Official time of death. The official time of death should be documented as this is critical for legal, medical, and procedural purposes. It is typically recorded when the attending physician or another authorized individual pronounces the death.
E. Who pronounced the patient. It is necessary to document who pronounced the patient deceased to ensure that the pronouncement of death is legally recognized. This is part of standard medical documentation and ensures proper identification of the responsible party.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "This small amount of bleeding is expected after the removal of polyps." Minor rectal bleeding is a common occurrence after polyp removal during a colonoscopy and generally does not indicate a complication. This reassurance helps alleviate the family’s concern.
B. "I will watch your husband very carefully to assess any further haemorrhage.": This could unnecessarily alarm the family.
C. "I will notify the primary care provider about this haemorrhage.": This overstates the concern, as slight bleeding is expected.
D. "Don't worry. This small amount of blood happens with these procedures.": This is dismissive and does not provide a professional explanation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Assisting the patient to get dressed: This is a supportive task that can be performed by any nursing staff.
B. Accompanying the patient to the acute care facility entrance: This is not a specific RN responsibility and can be done by other staff.
C. Writing the discharge instructions: Writing discharge instructions requires the professional judgment of an RN, ensuring that the patient receives comprehensive education about their care post-discharge.
D. Packing the patient's personal belongings: This is a clerical or supportive task and not specific to the RN role.
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