Which staff assignment, made by the primary nurse, requires the most immediate follow-up action by the charge nurse on a medical unit?
A practical nurse is assigned to transport a postoperative client to the rehabilitation unit.
A practical nurse (PN) is assigned to monitor the blood pressure of a client with hypertension.
A graduate nurse is assigned to obtain a unit of packed red blood cells from the blood bank.
An unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is assigned to check a client for fecal impaction.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason: This assignment does not require immediate follow-up action by the charge nurse because a practical nurse can transport a stable postoperative client to another unit and report any changes or concerns to the primary nurse.
Choice B Reason: This assignment does not require immediate follow-up action by the charge nurse because a practical nurse can monitor the blood pressure of a client with hypertension and administer antihypertensive medications as prescribed and delegated by the primary nurse.
Choice C Reason: This assignment does not require immediate follow-up action by the charge nurse because a graduate nurse can obtain a unit of packed red blood cells from the blood bank and verify the compatibility and identification with another registered nurse before transfusing it to the client.
Choice D Reason: This is the correct answer because checking a client for fecal impaction is beyond the scope of practice of unlicensed assistive personnel. It involves inserting a finger into the rectum and assessing for hard stool, which can cause injury or infection to the client. The charge nurse should intervene and assign this task to a registered nurse or a practical nurse.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Demonstrating the proper use of personal protective equipment is important, but not the first action. The charge nurse should first assess the UAP's level of understanding and address any misconceptions or fears about HIV transmission.
Choice B reason: Offering to assist the UAP with the collection of the specimen may be helpful, but not the first action. The charge nurse should first educate the UAP about HIV transmission and infection control measures, and then evaluate the UAP's competence and confidence in performing the task.
Choice C reason: Providing the UAP with the infection control policy is relevant, but not the first action. The charge nurse should first explain the rationale and principles of infection control to the UAP, and then refer to the policy as a guideline and resource.
Choice D reason: Determining the UAP's knowledge about HIV transmission is the first and most appropriate action for the charge nurse to take, as it will help identify any gaps or misinformation that may cause fear or anxiety in the UAP. The charge nurse should then provide accurate and evidence-based information about HIV transmission, prevention, and treatment, and answer any questions or concerns that the UAP may have.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Confronting the nurse manager as a group may not be effective or appropriate, as it may create more conflict and resentment. The charge nurse should follow the chain of command and escalate the issue to a higher authority if the nurse manager fails to act.
Choice B reason: Attending procedures performed by the surgeon and demanding halting of the procedure if the client becomes distressed may be seen as insubordination and interference by the surgeon, who may have legal authority to perform the procedure. It may also jeopardize the client's safety and outcome.
Choice C reason: Documenting client reactions to invasive procedures performed by the physician in their medical record is important, but not sufficient. It does not address the root cause of the problem, which is the surgeon's lack of empathy and respect for clients' pain and dignity.
Choice D reason: Reporting the physician's lack of concern for clients' pain during invasive procedures to the Director of Nursing is the most important action for the charge nurse to take, as it may lead to an investigation and corrective measures. The Director of Nursing has more power and responsibility than the nurse manager to deal with such issues and protect clients' rights and welfare.
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