A nurse is assisting with implementing new actions designed to reduce medication errors on her unit. Which of the following should the nurse use to measure the effectiveness of these actions?

Explanation:

A. Medical condition:

Including the client's medical condition in the Situation component of the ISBARR communication tool is important because it provides an overview of the client's health status. This may include a brief description of the primary diagnosis, current symptoms, or any significant changes in the client's condition since the last shift. It helps the receiving nurse understand the context and urgency of the report.

B. Treatment:

While treatment information is crucial for providing comprehensive care to the client, it is typically included in the Background or Assessment components of the ISBARR communication tool. The Situation component focuses on summarizing the client's current status rather than detailing specific treatments or interventions.

C. Vital signs:

Vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, temperature, and oxygen saturation, are essential clinical data. However, they are usually included in the Assessment component of the ISBARR communication tool, where the nurse provides a detailed assessment of the client's physiological parameters and trends.

D. List of medications:

Similar to treatment information, a list of medications is typically included in the Background or Assessment components of the ISBARR communication tool. It is important for the receiving nurse to know what medications the client is taking, including doses, frequencies, and any recent changes, but this information is more detailed and specific than what is typically included in the Situation component.

Explanation:

A. "We use an automated dispensing device to track the use of controlled substances."

This is a valid statement. Automated dispensing devices (ADDs) help track the use of controlled substances by requiring users to log in, record transactions, and provide an audit trail of medication access.

B. "You are required to have a second nurse witness disposal of a controlled substance."

Having a second nurse witness disposal of controlled substances is a common practice to ensure accountability and prevent diversion. This statement aligns with safety protocols.

C. “If a client refuses a medication, you can place it in your pocket to administer later."

This statement is incorrect and potentially dangerous. Controlled substances should never be pocketed or carried around for later administration, as this increases the risk of diversion and compromises medication safety.

D. "Activities of the automated dispensing machine will be reviewed periodically."

Reviewing the activities of the automated dispensing machine is an essential part of medication safety and helps detect any discrepancies or irregularities in medication access and administration.

E. "We count the amount of a controlled substance available before removal from a medication drawer."

Counting the amount of controlled substances before removal from a medication drawer is a standard procedure to ensure accurate inventory management and detect any discrepancies or losses promptly.