After implementation of new policies related to client identification prior to medication administration, the frequency of medication errors remains unchanged. Which should be the nurse manager's next action?
Provide revised procedural updates through additional nursing staff education programs.
Examine medication administration data to determine use of new policy by nursing staff.
Investigate identified procedural variances in medication administration with nursing staff.
Determine changes in procedure needed to reduce the frequency of medication errors.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Providing revised procedural updates through additional nursing staff education programs is not the best action for the nurse manager to take. The nurse manager should first evaluate the effectiveness of the current policies and education programs before implementing any changes. The nurse manager should also involve the nursing staff in the process of revising the policies and education programs.
Choice B reason: Examining medication administration data to determine use of new policy by nursing staff is the best action for the nurse manager to take. The nurse manager should analyze the data to identify the types, causes, and frequency of medication errors and compare them with the previous data. The nurse manager should also assess the compliance and feedback of the nursing staff regarding the new policies. This will help the nurse manager to identify the gaps and barriers in the implementation of the new policies and plan appropriate interventions.
Choice C reason: Investigating identified procedural variances in medication administration with nursing staff is an important action for the nurse manager to take, but not the best one. The nurse manager should first examine the medication administration data to determine the extent and nature of the procedural variances. The nurse manager should then investigate the specific cases of variances with the nursing staff and provide constructive feedback and guidance.
Choice D reason: Determining changes in procedure needed to reduce the frequency of medication errors is a desirable outcome for the nurse manager, but not the best action to take. The nurse manager should first examine the medication administration data and investigate the procedural variances before making any changes in the procedure. The nurse manager should also consult with the healthcare provider, the pharmacist, and the quality improvement team to ensure that the changes are evidence-based and feasible.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Nitroprusside sodium, an antihypertensive, is not the best medication infusion to assign to the PN. This medication requires close monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and cyanide levels. It also has a short half-life and needs frequent titration. These tasks are beyond the scope of practice of the PN and should be performed by the RN.
Choice B reason: Methotrexate, an antimetabolite chemotherapeutic agent, is not the best medication infusion to assign to the PN. This medication is used to treat various types of cancer and can cause severe side effects such as bone marrow suppression, hepatotoxicity, and mucositis. It also requires special precautions to prevent exposure and contamination. These tasks are beyond the scope of practice of the PN and should be performed by the RN.
Choice C reason: Octreotide acetate, an antidiarrheal agent, is the best medication infusion to assign to the PN. This medication is used to treat diarrhea caused by certain hormonal disorders such as carcinoid syndrome or acromegaly. It has a relatively long half-life and does not require frequent adjustments. It also has minimal side effects and does not need special precautions. These tasks are within the scope of practice of the PN and can be delegated by the RN.
Choice D reason: Amiodarone hydrochloride, an antiarrhythmic agent, is not the best medication infusion to assign to the PN. This medication is used to treat various types of cardiac arrhythmias and can cause serious side effects such as hypotension, bradycardia, pulmonary toxicity, and thyroid dysfunction. It also requires close monitoring of electrocardiogram, vital signs, and blood tests. These tasks are beyond the scope of practice of the PN and should be performed by the RN.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Obtaining the client's legal records for power of attorney is not the best action for the nurse to take. This may not be relevant or appropriate for the client's situation and may not address the client's wishes or needs.
Choice B reason: Asking the palliative care team to speak with the client is the best action for the nurse to take. This can help the client and the family understand the goals and options of palliative care, which focus on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for clients with life-limiting illnesses.
Choice C reason: Giving analgesic medications as needed (PRN) is not the best action for the nurse to take. This may not be sufficient or effective for the client's pain and discomfort, and may not respect the client's preference to avoid machines or interventions.
Choice D reason: Discontinuing the intravenous infusion is not the best action for the nurse to take. This may not be in the best interest of the client's health and hydration, and may not be consistent with the client's wishes or needs.
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