A nurse accidentally administers the wrong medication to a client, which results in a severe allergic reaction and prolongs the client's hospitalization. The client could rightfully sue the nurse for which of the following?
Battery
Malpractice
Abuse
Assault
The Correct Answer is B
A. Battery refers to the intentional and unlawful physical contact with another person without their consent. In this scenario, the nurse did not intend to harm the patient; the action was accidental. Therefore, battery would not apply here.
B. Malpractice is a type of negligence that occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide the standard of care that a reasonably competent nurse would provide in similar circumstances. Administering the wrong medication is a breach of duty, and if this mistake leads to harm (like an allergic reaction), the nurse can be held liable for malpractice.
C. Abuse generally refers to intentional harm or mistreatment of a patient, often involving physical or emotional harm. Since the nurse's actions were accidental and not intended to cause harm, this would not constitute abuse.
D. Assault involves the threat or attempt to cause physical harm to another person, creating a fear of imminent harm. Since the nurse did not intend to threaten or harm the patient, and the incident was not a threat, this does not fit the definition of assault.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This side effect, known as myelosuppression, is a significant concern and can manifest as anemia.
B. Hydroxyurea is actually prescribed to reduce the frequency of vasoocclusive crises by increasing fetal hemoglobin levels, which helps to prevent sickling of red blood cells. While a patient might experience pain crises while on hydroxyurea, the medication is intended to help manage this issue rather than be a reason for discontinuation.
C. While gastrointestinal upset is also a possible side effect, the risk of severe blood-related complications typically takes precedence when considering the discontinuation of hydroxyurea
D. While allergic reactions like itching or hives can occur with many medications, they are less common with hydroxyurea specifically.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While monitoring temperature is important in assessing for infection, it is not the priority assessment before administering morphine. Temperature does not directly relate to the immediate effects or risks associated with opioid administration.
B. Blood pressure monitoring is essential, especially in a postoperative patient. However, opioids primarily impact the respiratory system rather than directly causing significant changes in blood pressure. While hypotension can occur with opioids, it is not the most immediate concern when administering morphine.
C. This is the priority assessment. Opioids, including morphine, can cause respiratory depression, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening side effect. Before administering morphine, it is crucial to assess the respiratory rate to ensure the patient is not at risk for respiratory distress. If the respiratory rate is low (typically less than 12 breaths per minute), the nurse may need to hold the medication and notify the healthcare provider.
D. While it is important to monitor heart rate, especially in postoperative patients, the primary concern with morphine administration is its effect on respiration. The heart rate may not be as critical to assess immediately before administering morphine as the respiratory rate is.
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