The nurse in a skilled nursing facility observes a colleague leaving printed electronic medical record (EMR) copies of a client unattended on a counter top. Which action should the nurse implement?
Warn the colleague that copying health information is unlawful.
Send an email to facility administrators reporting the action.
Communicate the colleague's activities to the unit charge nurse.
Dispose the copies and continue with client care assignments.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Warn the colleague that copying health information is unlawful:
While informing the colleague about the unlawful nature of copying health information is important, it may not adequately address the potential breach of patient privacy and confidentiality. Additionally, the colleague may be aware of the laws but still engage in inappropriate behavior.
B. Send an email to facility administrators reporting the action:
Reporting the colleague's actions to facility administrators may be necessary, but it may not be the most immediate action to take. Informing the unit charge nurse allows for more immediate intervention and resolution within the unit.
C. Communicate the colleague's activities to the unit charge nurse:
This is the most appropriate action because it informs the person in charge of the unit about the observed behavior, allowing for immediate intervention and potential corrective action. The unit charge nurse can address the situation promptly and ensure that patient privacy and confidentiality are maintained.
D. Dispose the copies and continue with client care assignments:
While disposing of the copies may prevent further unauthorized access to patient information, it does not address the issue of the colleague's inappropriate handling of the records. It's essential to report the incident to the appropriate authority for further investigation and follow-up.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. When the client voided following catheter removal:
This information is crucial because it indicates the return of the client's ability to urinate after catheter removal. It helps assess urinary function and determines if the client is experiencing any urinary retention issues, which could potentially lead to complications such as urinary tract infections or bladder distention.
B. Color of the urine during catheter removal:
While the color of the urine during catheter removal may provide some insight into the client's urinary condition, it is not as critical as knowing when the client voided after catheter removal to assess urinary function.
C. Time of the last dose of IV antibiotic administration:
While the timing of the last dose of IV antibiotic administration is important for managing the client's urinary tract infection, it is not as immediately relevant as knowing when the client voided after catheter removal to assess urinary function.
D. Intake and output reports for the previous shift:
Intake and output reports are important for assessing fluid balance and renal function, but knowing when the client voided after catheter removal takes precedence as it directly assesses urinary function and the need for further intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Criminal assault and battery:
Criminal assault and battery involve intentionally causing harm to another person without their consent. In this scenario, the nurse's actions were aimed at providing aid and ensuring the victim's safety. There is no indication of any intentional harm or violence toward the victim.
B. Negligent acts of omission:
Negligent acts of omission occur when a healthcare provider fails to act in a manner consistent with the standard of care, resulting in harm to another person. In this scenario, the nurse took certain actions to assist the victim, such as turning off the engine key and assessing the victim's condition. There is no indication of negligent omission as the nurse took appropriate actions given the circumstances.
C. Abandonment of the victim:
This applies if a healthcare professional leaves a patient in need of care without ensuring appropriate transfer of care. In this scenario, the nurse handed over the situation to EMS before leaving.
D. Good Samaritan immunity:
Good Samaritan laws protect individuals, including nurses, who voluntarily provide assistance in emergency situations from legal liability, as long as their actions are within the scope of their knowledge and training and are performed in good faith. The nurse stopped to help, provided care, and then reported to EMS personnel before leaving, which is consistent with the protection offered by Good Samaritan laws.
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