The nurse is reviewing an assessment of a patient's peripheral pulses and notices that the documentation states that the radial pulses are "2+". The nurse recognizes that this reading indicates what type of pulse?

Choice A rationale

The charge nurse, by virtue of their leadership role and oversight of unit operations, is typically authorized to ensure patient safety and continuity of care. This includes re-verifying and administering medications in urgent situations when the preparing nurse is unavailable, adhering to established protocols and double-checking the medication before administration to prevent errors.

Choice B rationale

Limiting medication administration solely to the preparing nurse could delay critical treatment, especially during emergencies. While optimal, this practice is superseded by the need for timely patient care and adherence to a "second nurse check" policy, which enhances safety by having an additional qualified professional verify the medication.

Choice C rationale

Any licensed Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) on the unit, if familiar with the patient and their condition, possesses the scope of practice and clinical competency to administer medications. This ensures patient safety through appropriate verification, patient identification, and adherence to the "rights" of medication administration, maintaining continuity of care.

Choice D rationale

Pharmacy technicians are not licensed healthcare professionals authorized to administer medications directly to patients. Their scope of practice is limited to preparing, packaging, and distributing medications under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, lacking the clinical assessment and administration privileges of nursing staff.

Choice A rationale

The posterior tibial pulse is located in the groove between the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone) and the Achilles tendon. Palpating this pulse requires a gentle but firm touch to identify the arterial pulsations. It is a common site for assessing peripheral circulation and is essential for evaluating lower extremity perfusion.

Choice B rationale

The inguinal area is the anatomical region of the groin, where the femoral pulse is located. The femoral pulse is palpable just below the inguinal ligament, midway between the anterior superior iliac spine and the pubic symphysis. This is a central pulse site, distinct from the posterior tibial pulse.

Choice C rationale

The top of the foot is where the dorsalis pedis pulse is located. This pulse is found lateral to the extensor hallucis longus tendon, over the metatarsal bones. It is another important site for assessing lower extremity perfusion but is different from the posterior tibial pulse.

Choice D rationale

Behind the knee is the location for palpating the popliteal pulse. This pulse is more difficult to assess due to its deep location within the popliteal fossa. It requires the patient's knee to be slightly flexed to relax the muscles and facilitate palpation.