A charge nurse is observing a licensed practical nurse assist a client who has dysphagia while eating. Which of the following actions by the LPN should the charge nurse identify as providing safe care?

a. Is the client’s family present so the AP can show them how to turn the client:

While involving the client's family in care can be beneficial for education and support, this assessment does not directly pertain to the AP's ability to provide care or the client's immediate needs.

b. Does the AP have time to change the client’s central IV-line dressing after turning her:

This assessment is relevant to the AP's workload and scheduling, but it does not directly address the client's care needs related to bathing and turning.

c. Has data been collected about specific client needs related to turning:

This assessment is crucial before delegating care. The nurse should ensure that relevant information about the client's condition, including any specific needs or considerations related to turning, has been gathered and communicated to the AP to provide appropriate care.

d. Has the AP checked the client’s pain level prior to turning her:

This assessment is essential to ensure the client's comfort and safety during care activities. Assessing the client's pain level before turning helps prevent exacerbation of pain and ensures that turning is performed with appropriate consideration for the client's comfort.

a. A system for tracking client information:

Having a system for tracking client information is essential for effective disaster management, including during bioterrorism events. This system allows healthcare providers to monitor and manage the care of affected individuals, track exposure to biological agents, and coordinate response efforts. It facilitates communication and collaboration among healthcare teams and enables timely and accurate documentation of patient information, including symptoms, treatment, and outcomes.

b. A sufficient supply of personal protective equipment (PPE):

Personal protective equipment is critical in protecting healthcare workers and first responders from exposure to biological agents during a bioterrorism event. PPE includes items such as masks, gloves, gowns, and eye protection, which create a barrier between individuals and potentially hazardous substances. Having an adequate supply of PPE ensures that healthcare providers can safely care for affected individuals, minimize the risk of infection or contamination, and prevent the spread of disease within healthcare settings and the community.

c. A mental health specialist on the response team:

A mental health specialist plays a vital role in addressing the psychological and emotional needs of individuals affected by a bioterrorism event. Such events can cause fear, anxiety, trauma, and grief among survivors, healthcare workers, and the community. A mental health specialist provides support, counseling, and crisis intervention to help individuals cope with stress, trauma, and loss. They also assist in addressing psychosocial factors that may impact recovery and resilience, such as social support, coping mechanisms, and access to mental health services.

d. A network for communication between staff members and families:

Effective communication is essential for coordinating response efforts, disseminating information, and providing updates to staff members, patients, and their families during a bioterrorism event. A network for communication facilitates real-time communication and collaboration among healthcare teams, emergency responders, public health agencies, and community partners. It enables the sharing of critical information, such as situational updates, safety protocols, resource allocation, and instructions for affected individuals and their families. This communication network ensures that everyone receives timely and accurate information, reduces uncertainty and confusion, and enhances overall coordination and response effectiveness.