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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
A. Nurses are permitted to share a client’s information with family members only if the client grants permission. This aligns with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and ensures the client’s right to privacy and confidentiality is upheld.
B.While nurses play a critical role in client education, it is the provider’s responsibility to explain treatment options, including risks, benefits, and alternatives. Nurses can reinforce this information and answer questions but are not the primary party responsible for obtaining informed consent.
C.Restraints must never be applied on a "PRN" (as needed) basis. They require a specific, time-limited order from a provider, and their use must be justified and continually reassessed. This ensures that client rights and safety are maintained.
D.Participation in a research study requires informed consent from the client. Administering medications without consent is a violation of the client’s rights and ethical standards, even in research settings.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
a. "You must choose a member of your family to serve as your health care proxy":
This response is not accurate. While family members are often chosen as healthcare proxies, the client is not required to select a family member. The most important consideration is choosing someone who understands the client's healthcare wishes and is willing and able to advocate for them. The nurse should emphasize the importance of selecting a trusted individual, whether they are a family member or not.
b. "A health care proxy can make decisions for you when you are unable to do so":
This response is accurate. A healthcare proxy is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone else to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so due to illness or incapacity. The nurse should explain the role of a healthcare proxy in advocating for the client's wishes and ensuring that their healthcare preferences are honored.
c. "You should appoint a health care proxy before undergoing an invasive procedure":
While it is advisable for clients to have advance directives, including a healthcare proxy, in place before undergoing any medical procedure, this response does not fully address the client's question. The timing of appointing a healthcare proxy should not be limited to specific medical procedures but should be based on the client's readiness to make such decisions and their recognition of the importance of having a designated advocate for their healthcare needs.
d. "It is necessary for an attorney to approve your health care proxy":
This response is not accurate. While it may be helpful to seek legal advice when creating advance directives, including a healthcare proxy, it is not a requirement for an attorney to approve the document. The client can typically complete a healthcare proxy form themselves, following the legal requirements of their jurisdiction. However, consulting with an attorney can provide additional guidance and ensure that the document is properly executed.
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