An unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) who is working on a skilled nursing unit is diagnosed with hepatitis A (HVA). Two weeks later, a nurse complains of headache, nausea, anorexia, arthralgia, and low-grade fever. Which action should the nurse-manager take next?
Observe the nurse for jaundice and icterus sclera.
Review the immunization status of all unit employees.
Refer the nurse to employee health for serological testing.
Post an employee notice of the outbreak of HVA on the unit.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Observing the nurse for jaundice and icterus sclera is not the best action for the nurse-manager to take. These are signs of liver damage that may occur in the later stages of HVA infection. The nurse-manager should not rely on the physical appearance of the nurse to diagnose or rule out HVA. The nurse-manager should also respect the privacy and dignity of the nurse and not make any assumptions based on the skin or eye color.
Choice B reason: Reviewing the immunization status of all unit employees is an important action for the nurse-manager to take, but not the best one. The nurse-manager should ensure that all the staff are vaccinated against HVA or have received immune globulin if exposed. However, this action does not address the immediate needs and concerns of the nurse who is symptomatic and may be infected. The nurse-manager should also consider the possibility of other causes of the nurse's symptoms besides HVA.
Choice C reason: Referring the nurse to employee health for serological testing is the best action for the nurse-manager to take. The nurse-manager should facilitate the prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment of the nurse who is symptomatic and may have HVA. The nurse-manager should also follow the infection control and reporting protocols of the facility and the health department. The nurse-manager should also provide support and counseling to the nurse and the staff.
Choice D reason: Posting an employee notice of the outbreak of HVA on the unit is not the best action for the nurse-manager to take. The nurse-manager should inform and educate the staff about the risk and prevention of HVA, but not in a way that may cause panic or stigma. The nurse-manager should also protect the confidentiality and rights of the nurse and the UAP who are diagnosed with HVA. The nurse-manager should also consult with the infection control and quality improvement teams before posting any notice.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The client's healthcare power of attorney is not the most urgent information to report to the healthcare provider. It is relevant for the client's legal and ethical rights, but it does not affect the immediate clinical situation.
Choice B reason: The increasing confusion of the client is the most urgent information to report to the healthcare provider. It indicates a possible deterioration of the client's neurological status and requires prompt evaluation and intervention.
Choice C reason: The currently prescribed medications are important information to report to the healthcare provider, but they are not the first priority. They can be part of the background information that explains the client's medical history and current treatment.
Choice D reason: The fall at home as the reason for admission is also important information to report to the healthcare provider, but it is not the first priority. It can be part of the situation information that describes the client's chief complaint and presenting problem.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: A practical nurse is qualified to transport a postoperative client to the rehabilitation unit, as long as they have the necessary equipment and report any changes in the client's condition to the primary nurse.
Choice B reason: A practical nurse (PN) is competent to monitor the blood pressure of a client with hypertension, as long as they follow the prescribed treatment plan and report any abnormal findings to the primary nurse.
Choice C reason: An unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is not authorized to check a client for fecal impaction, as this is a nursing assessment that requires specialized knowledge and skills. The charge nurse should intervene and assign this task to a registered nurse or a practical nurse.
Choice D reason: A graduate nurse is capable of obtaining a unit of packed red blood cells from the blood bank, as long as they have the proper identification and documentation. They should also be supervised by an experienced nurse when administering the blood transfusion.
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