In reviewing the current delivery model, the nurse manager is aware that a demographic change that will have a significant effect on healthcare delivery systems of the future is:

A. Waiting to empty a colostomy bag until it is completely full can lead to complications such as leakage, skin irritation, or infection. This practice does not effectively save resources and could potentially increase overall costs due to additional care needs and complications.
B. Encouraging clients to receive an annual flu immunization is an appropriate and effective method to reduce costs. Vaccinations help prevent the spread of infectious diseases, which can reduce the incidence of illness and the associated costs of treatment and hospitalizations.
C. Re-using personal protective equipment (PPE) is not safe or recommended. PPE is designed for single- use to prevent the spread of infections and ensure the safety of both healthcare workers and patients. Re-using PPE, even if it is not visibly soiled, compromises infection control standards and can lead to increased costs and health risks if infections occur. This approach is neither cost-effective nor safe.
D. Head-to-toe assessments are critical for patient evaluation and require the expertise and judgment of a licensed nurse. Delegating this responsibility to assistive personnel (AP) is inappropriate and could jeopardize patient safety. While delegating tasks to APs can help manage workload, it is important to assign tasks within the scope of their training and responsibilities.

A. This response is defensive and confrontational. It does not address the concern about care quality but instead attacks the other nurse’s behavior and care standards. Assertiveness involves expressing oneself honestly and respectfully, which this response does not achieve.

B. This response is also defensive and dismissive. It implies that the criticism is personal rather than a professional concern, which can be seen as an emotional reaction rather than a constructive dialogue. Assertiveness involves addressing issues directly and professionally, not by questioning motives or personalizing the feedback.
C. This response indicates a lack of confidence or readiness to engage with the feedback constructively. It does not actively seek clarification or attempt to understand the specific concerns about the care provided. Instead, it focuses on the nurse's own feelings and attempts to justify their actions without engaging in a problem-solving discussion.
D. This response is assertive because it acknowledges the feedback, states the nurse’s perspective on the care provided, and invites further discussion to understand the concerns better. It demonstrates openness to feedback and a willingness to address potential issues constructively.