While auditing the medical records of clients currently on an oncology unit, the nurse manager finds that six of the 15 records lack documentation regarding advance directives. Which of the following is the priority action for the nurse to take?

Choice A Reason:
Reinforcing the potential consequences of not having advance directives on record is important, but the immediate priority is to ensure that the missing documentation is obtained.
Choice B Reason:
Reminding nurses to obtain advance directive information during the admission process is a proactive approach to preventing future instances of missing documentation. However, the priority now is to address the current gap in documentation for clients already admitted.
Choice C Reason:
Meeting with nursing staff to review the policy regarding advance directives can provide clarification and reinforcement of expectations, but again, the immediate priority is to address the missing documentation for current clients.
Choice D Reason:
Asking nurses who are caring for clients without this information in the medical record to obtain it. The priority action for the nurse manager is to ensure that advance directives, which are critical documents outlining a patient's wishes regarding medical treatment, are obtained for clients who currently lack documentation. This ensures that patients' preferences and choices regarding their care are respected, especially in critical situations.

Choice A Reason:
Ensuring goals of the facility are being met is correct. Nurse managers are responsible for ensuring that the unit's activities align with the overall goals and objectives of the healthcare facility.
Choice B Reason:
Making decisions on the unit is not necessarily exclusive to the nurse manager role. While nurse managers do have authority to make decisions on the unit, decision-making may also involve collaboration with other members of the healthcare team and may not be solely the responsibility of the nurse manager. Therefore, it's not a specific responsibility that should be included in this context.
Choice C Reason:
Delegating tasks to assistive personnel is correct. Nurse managers delegate tasks to assistive personnel based on their scope of practice and the needs of the unit, ensuring efficient and effective care delivery.
Choice D Reason:
Rewarding and discipline staff as necessary is correct. Nurse managers are responsible for recognizing and rewarding staff for their contributions, as well as addressing performance issues through appropriate disciplinary measures when necessary to maintain a productive work environment.
Choice E Reason:
Monitoring overall functions of the unit is correct. Nurse managers oversee the day-to-day operations of the unit, including staffing, patient care delivery, adherence to policies and procedures, and quality improvement initiatives. They are responsible for ensuring that the unit functions smoothly and efficiently to provide safe and high-quality care to patients.