An older adult patient has been prescribed warfarin (coumadin). The nurses primary intervention involves daily review of the patient's:

A. The term "State Practice Act" is not a standard term used to describe the specific law governing nursing practice. It is a broader term that could refer to various state laws related to professional practice in general, not specifically nursing.
B. A "Legislative Act" is a general term for any law passed by a legislative body. It is not specific to nursing or to the regulations surrounding nursing practice. While the Nurse Practice Act is indeed a legislative act, this term does not specifically define the nursing regulations and licensure requirements.
C. The term "Nurse Regulation Act" is not commonly used or recognized as the official name of the law governing nursing practice. It might imply a focus on regulations but does not accurately reflect the official and widely accepted terminology.
D. The Nurse Practice Act is the correct term. This law defines the scope of practice for nurses, regulates the practice of nursing within a state, and establishes the requirements for obtaining and maintaining licensure. It outlines the legal parameters within which nurses must operate and is specific to the practice of nursing. The Nurse Practice Act ensures that nursing professionals meet certain standards of competency and ethical practice.

A. This response is correct because patients have the right to receive clear and accurate information about their medical care. Professional interpreters ensure that patients fully understand their medical conditions, treatment options, and procedures. Using a qualified interpreter respects the patient's right to competent and equitable care.
B. Using a child as an interpreter can cause discomfort or embarrassment for both the child and the older adult. The situation might be emotionally charged, and the presence of a child in a professional medical setting could make the older adult feel uncomfortable or pressured.
C. Privacy laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the U.S., emphasize the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality. While privacy laws primarily address the protection of patient information, they also suggest that sensitive discussions, such as those about health conditions and treatments, should be handled by trained professionals to ensure privacy and confidentiality are upheld. A child might not be able to maintain the same level of confidentiality as a professional interpreter.
D. Children, especially minors, may lack the maturity, language proficiency, and medical vocabulary needed to accurately and effectively translate complex medical information. Miscommunication can
lead to misunderstandings about the patient’s condition and treatment, potentially compromising care.
E. This response is not the most valid in this context. While it might be true that using an untrained interpreter could potentially take longer, the primary concerns are about accuracy, professionalism, and maintaining patient rights and confidentiality. The use of a professional interpreter ensures that communication is clear and precise, which is essential for effective medical care.