A charge nurse witnesses an assistive personnel failing to follow facility protocol when discarding contaminated linens. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Alert the infection control department
Discuss the issue with the AP
Reinforce facility protocols at the next staff meeting
Notify the unit manager about the incident
The Correct Answer is B
a. Alert the infection control department:
While the infection control department plays a role in ensuring proper infection prevention practices, directly alerting them may not be the most immediate action to take. The charge nurse should first address the issue internally before escalating it to other departments.
b. Discuss the issue with the AP:
This is the most appropriate initial action to take. Speaking directly with the assistive personnel allows the charge nurse to clarify the correct protocol, provide education or retraining if necessary, and address any misunderstandings or lapses in adherence to facility policies.
c. Reinforce facility protocols at the next staff meeting:
While reinforcing facility protocols is important, waiting until the next staff meeting may not address the immediate concern of the observed failure to follow protocol. Direct communication with the individual involved is more effective for addressing the specific incident in a timely manner.
d. Notify the unit manager about the incident:
Notifying the unit manager about the incident may be necessary if the issue persists or if further action is required beyond the initial discussion with the assistive personnel. However, it may not be the first step to take when addressing an isolated incident.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
a. A client who reports night sweats and fever for the last week:
Night sweats and fever can be indicative of various underlying conditions, including infections. While these symptoms may require medical attention, they do not necessarily indicate an immediately life-threatening condition compared to other options.
b. A client who has compound fractures of the tibia and humerus:
Compound fractures involve broken bones that penetrate through the skin, leading to a risk of severe bleeding, infection, and other complications. This client's injuries are significant and require immediate attention to prevent further complications and provide pain management and stabilization.
c. A client who reports severe vomiting and diarrhea:
Severe vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and other complications, especially if prolonged or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever. While this client requires prompt assessment and treatment, the urgency may not be as high as for other conditions.
d. A client who has soot markings around each naris following a house fire:
Soot markings around the nares (nostrils) suggest inhalation injury, which can lead to airway compromise, respiratory distress, and other serious complications. This client requires immediate assessment and intervention to ensure airway patency, oxygenation, and respiratory support.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
a. "I will ask your mother's primary care provider to speak with you."This response does not address the issue of confidentiality and consent. The nurse should not assume that the provider will discuss the treatment without the client's consent.
B.“You will have to speak directly to your mother about her treatment.”This response correctly redirects the child to the client but does not fully explain the importance of consent and confidentiality, which are crucial in maintaining professional and ethical standards.
C.“What would you like to know about your mother’s treatment.”This response might imply a willingness to share information without the client’s consent, which would be a violation of confidentiality and privacy laws.
D.“I cannot provide this information to you without your mother’s consent.”Correct. This response clearly states the need for the client’s consent before any information can be shared, adhering to the principles of confidentiality and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations.
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