Which is the best method for the nurse to correctly identify a client prior to surgery?

Choice A reason: Asking the client their date of birth and confirming it with the chart and name of surgery is a good practice, but it is not the most comprehensive method. This approach verifies only one identifier and does not ensure the correct surgical site.

Choice B reason: Checking the client’s medical record number and surgical consent form is important, but it does not involve direct interaction with the client. This method verifies the documentation but does not confirm the client’s identity through personal verification.

Choice C reason: Checking the client’s armband and asking their name, date of birth, and site of surgery is the best method. This approach uses multiple identifiers and involves direct interaction with the client, ensuring accurate identification and confirmation of the correct surgical site. The use of multiple identifiers reduces the risk of errors and enhances patient safety.

Choice D reason: Asking the client their name and social security number is another method of identification, but it is not as commonly used in clinical settings due to privacy concerns. Additionally, it does not confirm the surgical site.

Choice A reason: Asking if the client has ever had pneumonia does not confirm a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis. Pneumonia is an acute infection of the lungs, whereas chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition characterized by persistent inflammation of the airways. While a history of pneumonia might be relevant to the client’s overall respiratory health, it is not specific to diagnosing chronic bronchitis.

Choice B reason: Inquiring about a recent bronchoscopy does not confirm chronic bronchitis. Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the airways and collect samples, but it is not a criterion for diagnosing chronic bronchitis. The diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and history rather than recent procedures.

Choice C reason: The question about a consistent cough for three months in the last two years directly relates to the diagnostic criteria for chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is defined by a productive cough that lasts for at least three months in two consecutive years. This question helps to confirm the chronic nature of the client’s symptoms, which is essential for diagnosis.

Choice D reason: Asking if the client has had the flu in the past year does not confirm chronic bronchitis. Influenza is a viral infection that can cause acute respiratory symptoms, but it is not related to the chronic inflammation seen in chronic bronchitis. This question might be relevant for understanding the client’s recent health history but does not aid in diagnosing chronic bronchitis.