Which scenario best illustrates the nurse using data validation when making a nursing clinical decision for a patient?

A. The nurse determines to remove a wound dressing when the patient reveals the time of the last dressing change and notices old and new drainage. This is correct because data validation involves verifying information before taking action. The nurse gathers subjective data from the patient (time of last dressing change) and objective data (drainage) before making a clinical decision.

B. The nurse administers pain medicine due at 1700 at 1600 because the patient reports increased pain and the family wants something done. This is incorrect because the nurse has not validated whether the pain medication can be given early or if other interventions should be attempted first.

C. The nurse immediately asks the health care provider for an order of potassium when a patient reports leg cramps. This is incorrect because the nurse has not validated whether the leg cramps are due to low potassium. Leg cramps can result from multiple causes, including dehydration or circulatory issues. Lab values should be checked first.

D. The nurse elevates a leg cast when the patient reports decreased mobility. This is incorrect because decreased mobility does not necessarily indicate the need for elevation. Data validation should include assessing for swelling, circulation, and pain before making a decision.

A. Forcing eye contact may be culturally insensitive.

B. No psychological evaluation is warranted based solely on this behavior.

C. Assuming depression without further assessment is inappropriate.

D. In some Asian cultures, avoiding eye contact can be a sign of respect rather than an indicator of depression or psychological distress.