Exhibits

Choose:

Choice A: RN’s workload

While the RN’s workload can influence the decision to delegate tasks, it is not the primary factor. The RN must ensure that the tasks delegated are within the LPN/VN’s scope of practice and that patient safety is not compromised. The workload of the RN is a consideration but not a determining factor.

Choice B: Skill and experience of the LPN/VN

This is a correct answer. The skill and experience of the LPN/VN are crucial in determining what tasks can be safely delegated. An LPN/VN with more experience and higher skill levels can handle more complex tasks. The RN must assess the competency of the LPN/VN to ensure that they can perform the delegated tasks safely and effectively.

Choice C: Agency policies

Agency policies are important as they provide guidelines on what tasks can be delegated and to whom. However, they are not the sole factor in the decision-making process. The RN must also consider the specific circumstances of the patient and the competencies of the LPN/VN.

Choice D: Stability of the patients

This is another correct answer. The stability of the patients is a critical factor in delegation decisions. Stable patients with predictable outcomes are more suitable for care by an LPN/VN. Unstable patients or those with complex needs require the higher level of assessment and intervention that an RN provides.

Choice E: LPN/VN teaching abilities

While teaching abilities are important, they are not the primary consideration for delegation. The focus is on the LPN/VN’s ability to perform the delegated tasks safely and effectively. Teaching abilities may come into play in specific situations but are not a determining factor in most delegation decisions.

Choice A reason:

A Foley catheter was reinserted after surgery for urinary retention is a significant factor because indwelling urinary catheters are a common source of Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs), specifically catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). The presence of a Foley catheter provides a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the bladder, increasing the risk of infection. Regular assessment of the need for the catheter and maintaining strict aseptic technique during insertion and care are essential to prevent CAUTIs. The CDC emphasizes the importance of removing catheters as soon as they are no longer necessary to reduce the risk of infection.

Choice B reason:

Retired mechanic is not directly relevant to the risk of HAIs. While Mr. Johnson’s previous occupation might provide some context about his lifestyle and potential exposure to certain risks, it does not have a direct impact on his current risk for developing HAIs. The focus should be on his current medical condition and the procedures he has undergone.

Choice C reason:

Age is a critical factor in the risk of developing HAIs. Older adults, like Mr. Johnson, have a higher risk of infections due to age-related changes in the immune system, comorbidities, and decreased physiological reserves. Age can also affect the healing process and the body’s ability to fight off infections. Therefore, Mr. Johnson’s age is an important consideration in his risk assessment for HAIs. Older patients often require more vigilant monitoring and preventive measures to reduce the risk of infections.

Choice D reason:

History of diabetes significantly increases the risk of HAIs. Diabetes can impair the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. It also affects wound healing, increasing the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs). Patients with diabetes need careful monitoring and management to prevent complications related to infections. Proper glycemic control is crucial in reducing the risk of HAIs in diabetic patients.

Choice E reason:

Incision is a direct risk factor for surgical site infections (SSIs). The midline incision from Mr. Johnson’s abdominal surgery is a potential entry point for bacteria, which can lead to infection. Proper wound care, including keeping the incision clean and dry, monitoring for signs of infection, and timely dressing changes, is crucial to prevent SSIs. Surgical site infections are among the most common HAIs and require diligent preventive measures.

Choice F reason:

Gender is not a primary factor in the risk of HAIs. While some studies suggest that certain infections may have different prevalence rates between genders, it is not a significant factor compared to the other considerations such as the presence of a catheter, age, diabetes, and surgical incision. The focus should be on the more direct risk factors that have a substantial impact on the likelihood of developing HAIs.