The clinic nurse has recently opened a client’s chart on the computer. A resident approaches and requests her to remain logged in so he can add a note to the same chart. Her response should be:

Choice A Reason:

Making a copy of the incident report for the provider is not necessary. Incident reports are typically used for internal documentation and risk management purposes. They are not part of the patient’s medical record and should not be shared with the provider in this manner. The provider should be notified of the incident through appropriate channels, but a copy of the report is not required.

Choice B Reason:

Documenting in the chart that an incident report has been filed is inappropriate. The patient’s medical record should contain factual, objective information about the patient’s condition and care. Mentioning that an incident report has been filed can be seen as an admission of liability and is not recommended. The focus should be on documenting the patient’s condition and any care provided as a result of the fall.

Choice C Reason:

Placing the incident report in the client’s chart is incorrect. Incident reports are not part of the patient’s medical record and should be kept separate. They are used for internal purposes to improve patient safety and care processes. Including them in the patient’s chart can lead to legal complications and is against best practices.

Choice D Reason:

Submitting the incident report to the risk manager is the appropriate action. The risk manager is responsible for reviewing incident reports to identify potential risks and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. This process is crucial for maintaining patient safety and improving healthcare quality.

Choice A Reason:

The conflict can help nurses better identify their common values. While conflict can sometimes lead to positive outcomes, such as a deeper understanding of shared values and improved communication, it often requires effective conflict resolution strategies and a supportive environment. In the context of a new policy that has already sparked mistrust, it is less likely that the immediate outcome will be positive without deliberate efforts to address the underlying issues.

Choice B Reason:

Diverted attention and energy from patient care may potentially impact patient well-being. This is a significant concern in healthcare settings, especially in intensive care units where patient needs are critical. When nurses are preoccupied with internal conflicts and mistrust, their focus on patient care can be compromised, leading to potential negative outcomes for patients. Ensuring that the team remains cohesive and focused on patient care is essential for maintaining high standards of care and patient safety.

Choice C Reason:

The policy change, being the correct choice, will improve the overall unit performance. This statement assumes that the policy change is inherently beneficial and that its positive effects will be immediately apparent. However, even well-intentioned policies can face resistance if not properly communicated and implemented. The initial mistrust and conflict may hinder the potential benefits of the policy, at least in the short term.

Choice D Reason:

When observing the favorable results of the decision, the dissenting nurses may recognize their previous stance was mistaken, promoting unity within the group. While this outcome is possible, it is not the most likely immediate outcome given the initial mistrust and conflict. It often takes time for the positive effects of a policy change to become evident and for dissenting team members to change their perspectives. Effective leadership and communication are crucial in facilitating this process.