The nurse reviews morning lab results on his patients.

Based on these lab results which patient should the nurse see first?

Choice A rationale
Insertion of a urinary catheter is a direct care intervention. It involves direct personal contact with the patient.
Choice B rationale
Reviewing discharge instructions with the client is also a direct care intervention. It involves direct personal contact with the patient.
Choice C rationale
Performing routine oral care is a direct care intervention. It involves direct personal contact with the patient.
Choice D rationale
Documentation of IV insertion is an example of an indirect care intervention. Indirect care interventions are performed when the nurse provides assistance in a setting other than with the patient. Examples of indirect care interventions are attending care conferences, documenting, and communicating about patient care with other providers.

Choice A rationale
This statement is more about describing the specific situation (the “D” in DESC) rather than expressing the nurse’s concerns (the “E” in DESC). It’s important to note that the DESC tool stands for Describe, Express, State, and Consequences. In this context, the nurse is merely stating what happened, not expressing how it made them feel or the impact it had on them.
Choice B rationale
This statement accurately represents the “E” component of the DESC tool, which stands for "Express your concerns"12. In this scenario, the nurse is expressing their feelings about the physician’s behavior and its impact on them. They’re stating how the physician’s actions made them feel uncomfortable, especially in front of other staff members and the patient. This is a crucial step in the DESC process as it allows the individual to express their feelings and concerns about the situation.
Choice C rationale
This statement is more aligned with the “S” component of the DESC tool, which stands for "State other alternatives"12. Here, the nurse is suggesting a different way for the physician to express their concerns in the future. While this is an important part of the DESC process, it does not represent the “E” component.
Choice D rationale
This statement represents the “C” component of the DESC tool, which stands for "Consequences stated"12. In this context, the nurse is outlining the potential outcomes if they cannot agree on an alternative approach. While this is a crucial step in the DESC process, it does not represent the “E” component.