In the event of a communication breakdown during a disaster, what actions should be taken?

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale

A graduate nursing student requesting information, including laboratory findings and chest X- ray results, about all clients with symptoms of H1N1 who have been seen during the last month in a community health clinic is asking for sensitive patient information. This information is protected under privacy laws and regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. Therefore, the charge nurse should obtain written authorization from clients to release the information. This ensures that the privacy and confidentiality of the patients are maintained, which is a fundamental principle in healthcare.

Choice B rationale

While it’s important to verify if permission has been obtained from the research committee, it’s not the first step in this process. The primary concern should be the patients’ rights to privacy and confidentiality. Therefore, obtaining written authorization from the clients to release their information should be the first step.

Choice C rationale

Asking the student to sign a standard waiver form is not sufficient to protect the privacy and confidentiality of the patients. The charge nurse should first obtain written authorization from the clients before releasing any information.

Choice D rationale

Providing the information for research purposes only does not absolve the healthcare provider from the responsibility of obtaining written consent from the patients. The patients’ rights to privacy and confidentiality must be respected, and their consent is necessary before any information can be released.

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice B.

Choice A rationale

Rechecking the client’s vital signs in 30 minutes may not be the most appropriate action in this situation. The client is showing signs of possible complications such as infection (elevated

temperature, malaise) and referred pain in the shoulder, which could indicate diaphragmatic irritation. These symptoms, along with the client’s recent surgery, suggest that immediate medical attention may be necessary.

Choice B rationale

Having the client transported via ambulance to the hospital is the most appropriate action. The client’s symptoms suggest possible complications that require immediate medical attention.

Abdominal tenderness and shoulder pain could indicate a serious condition such as a perforation or infection. The elevated heart rate and low blood pressure could suggest sepsis or shock. Immediate medical evaluation and treatment are necessary.

Choice C rationale

Determining the client’s current oxygen saturation rate is important, but it is not the most immediate need. While this information could provide additional data about the client’s condition, it does not address the potential seriousness of the client’s symptoms. The client needs immediate medical attention.

Choice D rationale

Instructing the client to drive to the hospital for admission is not the best choice. Given the client’s symptoms and recent surgery, it would be safer for the client to be transported by ambulance. This would ensure that the client receives immediate medical attention and that the client’s condition can be monitored during transport.