A nurse is caring for a client who refuses their morning dose of antihypertensive medication. The client tells the nurse, "I'm not going to take this medication because it makes me sick and dizzy." Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Document the refusal in the client's medical record.
Return the medication to the medication cabinet.
Inform the client of the potential consequences of their refusal.
Notify the provider of the client's refusal.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
While documenting the refusal is important for accurate record-keeping and to ensure communication among the healthcare team, addressing the client's immediate concerns and attempting to resolve the issue of medication refusal should take precedence before documenting.
Choice B Reason:
Returning the medication is a procedural step but is not the immediate action needed when a client refuses medication due to adverse effects. First, it's important to address the client's concerns and discuss the potential consequences of refusal.
When a client refuses medication due to experiencing adverse effects, the initial action for the nurse to take is:
Choice C Reason:
Inform the client of the potential consequences of their refusal is correct. It's essential to engage in a conversation with the client to understand their concerns and educate them about the potential consequences of not taking their antihypertensive medication. The nurse should discuss the risks associated with untreated high blood pressure to ensure the client is informed about the importance of the prescribed medication.
Choice D Reason:
Notifying the provider is important, but it is generally done after the nurse has attempted to address the client’s concerns and informed them of the consequences. The provider should be informed if the refusal persists or if the nurse believes the situation requires further medical intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Adhesive tape is incorrect. Adhesive tape is commonly used for securing dressings or medical devices, but it may not be the primary supply needed for managing a stage 4 pressure injury. Wound care for a stage 4 pressure injury often involves specialized dressings, cleansing solutions, and applicators rather than adhesive tape alone.
Choice B Reason:
Tongue depressor is incorrect. A tongue depressor is typically used for oral examinations or to apply topical treatments to the mouth. It's not a standard supply for managing a stage 4 pressure injury, which requires specific wound care supplies designed for wound cleaning and dressing application.
Choice C Reason:
Syringe is incorrect. While syringes are versatile tools used in various medical procedures, in the context of managing a stage 4 pressure injury, their primary use might be for administering medications or irrigation solutions rather than being the essential supply for wound care in this specific instance.
For a client with a stage 4 pressure injury, the nurse should obtain supplies that are suitable for wound care. Among the options provided, the most appropriate supply is:
Choice D Reason:
Cotton-tipped applicator is correct. A cotton-tipped applicator can be used for wound cleaning and dressing application for a stage 4 pressure injury. It allows for gentle cleaning of the wound and application of topical treatments while minimizing trauma to the wound area.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
To an employer for a pre-employment screening is correct. Generally, healthcare information disclosure to an employer for pre-employment screening requires the client's written consent. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other privacy regulations typically protect a client's health information from disclosure to employers without explicit authorization from the client.
Choice B Reason:
To a medical interpreter service on behalf of a client is incorrect. In situations where a medical interpreter service is required to facilitate communication between the healthcare provider and the client, limited disclosure of health information may be necessary to ensure proper care. However, the information shared should be relevant to the immediate healthcare needs and should not exceed what's necessary for effective communication.
Choice C Reason:
To a family member when the client is not available is incorrect. In certain circumstances, especially if the client is incapacitated or unavailable, disclosing limited health information to a family member might be necessary for the client's best interests, such as for care coordination or emergencies. However, the information shared should be limited to what's essential and relevant to the situation.
Choice D Reason:
To an insurance agency in regard to a life insurance policy is incorrect. Health information disclosure to an insurance agency might be permitted in the context of processing a life insurance policy, typically under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and as allowed by state laws. However, this disclosure is usually limited to information necessary for underwriting the policy and may not require the client's explicit written consent.
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