A client with frequent watery stools and a possible Clostridium difficile infection is hospitalized with dehydration. Which nursing action should the charge nurse assign to an LPN?

Performing assessments of the client's hydration status.

Administering the prescribed metronidazole 500 mg orally to the client.

Reviewing client's medical history for any risk factors for diarrhea.

Explaining the purpose of the ordered stool cultures to the client and family.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   While LPNs can perform some assessments, the charge nurse should assign this task to an RN. Assessing hydration status requires critical thinking and a comprehensive understanding of the client's overall clinical condition, which typically falls within the RN’s scope of practice.
B.   Administering medications, including antibiotics like metronidazole, is within the scope of practice for LPNs. As long as the LPN is competent in administering medications and there are no specific contraindications for the client, this task can be appropriately assigned.
C.   This task involves critical thinking and comprehensive analysis of the client's medical history, which is typically conducted by an RN. While LPNs may review aspects of the medical history, the charge nurse should assign more complex evaluations and assessments to RNs.
D.   While LPNs can provide some patient education, explaining the rationale behind specific tests, especially in the context of complex infections, typically requires the knowledge and expertise of an RN. This task may involve more detailed clinical reasoning and the ability to address specific questions and concerns that the client or family may have.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Monitoring temperature is also important, but it does not directly prevent a crisis.
B. Hydration is critical for children with sickle cell anemia, as it helps prevent sickle cell crises by promoting adequate blood flow and reducing blood viscosity. Encouraging frequent fluid intake is essential in managing the condition.
C. While it's important to monitor activity levels, outright restriction may not be necessary. Instead, children with sickle cell anemia should be encouraged to engage in age-appropriate activities while avoiding extreme temperatures and strenuous activities that could trigger a crisis. Balanced activity is essential for overall health and development.
D. Cold compresses are not typically recommended for managing pain during a sickle cell crisis. Instead, warmth is often preferred because it helps to relax muscles and improve blood flow. Cold can potentially exacerbate vasoconstriction, which is not beneficial for a child experiencing pain due to sickle cell disease.

A. A staff nurse filing an event report after making a medication error. B. A nurse manager abuses their power by humiliating a new nurse in front of their peers for making a medication error. C. A charge nurse improperly uses authority by condescending a new nurse who asked them a question about medication administration. D. Sexual harassment of a patient by their primary nurse.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Filing an event report after a medication error is a professional and responsible action. This behavior promotes transparency and accountability and is often required by healthcare facilities to improve safety and prevent future errors. Generally, filing such a report itself does not carry disciplinary consequences, especially if done in accordance with the facility's policies.
B. This behavior can have serious disciplinary consequences. Humiliating a colleague can create a hostile work environment, which may lead to formal complaints and disciplinary actions against the nurse manager. Such actions violate workplace professionalism and can result in legal repercussions as well.
C. This behavior can also lead to disciplinary action. Condescension and disrespect undermine teamwork and can discourage open communication, which is critical in healthcare settings. This behavior can be reported and may be addressed by management or human resources.
D. Sexual harassment of a patient is a serious offense that can lead to severe legal and disciplinary consequences. It is a violation of ethical and legal standards in healthcare, resulting in potential termination, loss of licensure, and legal action.

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A client with frequent watery stools and a possible Clostridium difficile infection is hospitalized with dehydration. Which nursing action should the charge nurse assign to an LPN?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is discharging a child who has sickle cell anemia after an acute crisis episode. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Which of the following behaviors would not have disciplinary or legal consequences?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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