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. "The client has developed drooping facial features."

This statement provides specific information about a recent change in the client's condition, which is relevant background information. It helps the provider understand one of the key reasons for the communication.

B. "The client may benefit from a neurology consult."

While suggesting a neurology consult is a potential recommendation (R) in the SBAR tool, it is not part of the Background (B) component. Background information typically focuses on factual data about the client's history, current condition, and pertinent details relevant to the situation.

C. "The client is disoriented and pupils are slow to respond to light."

Similar to option B, this statement describes the client's assessment findings and current condition rather than providing background information. It would be more appropriate in the Assessment (A) component of the SBAR tool.

D. "The client has a history of hypertension."

This statement provides relevant background information about the client's medical history, specifically their history of hypertension. Including this information in the Background component helps the provider understand the client's baseline health status, which is important for evaluating the current situation.

Explanation:

A. Arrange referral for family therapy to deal with home stressors:

While family therapy may be beneficial for addressing home stressors, it is not the first step when there is a suspicion of physical abuse. The priority in cases of suspected abuse is to ensure the client's safety and to report the suspicion to the appropriate authorities.

B. Follow the agency's guidelines for reporting suspected abuse:

This is the correct action to take first. Nurses are mandated reporters, and they must follow their agency's protocols and legal requirements for reporting suspected abuse. Reporting ensures that the client's situation is investigated promptly, and appropriate interventions are implemented to protect the client.

C. Check the bruises at the next visit to the client's home:

Delaying action and waiting until the next visit to check the bruises is not appropriate in cases of suspected abuse. Immediate action is necessary to address the safety of the client. Suspected abuse should be reported promptly to the relevant authorities for investigation.

D. Institute more frequent visits to the client's home:

Increasing the frequency of visits may not address the immediate safety concerns of the client if abuse is suspected. While increased monitoring may be necessary in certain situations, reporting the suspicion of abuse and initiating appropriate interventions should take precedence.