A nurse is discussing the process of evidence-based practice (EBP). Which of the following sources should the nurse identify as being examples of credible sources of information? (Select All that Apply.)

Explanation:

A. Material safety data sheets:

Material safety data sheets (MSDS) are documents that provide information about the properties of chemicals and substances, including hazards, handling, storage, and emergency procedures. While MSDS are crucial for ensuring safe handling of materials, they primarily focus on chemical safety and may not provide detailed guidance on specimen collection protocols. Therefore, while MSDS are essential references for safety, they are not the primary source for revising specimen collection protocols.

B. Evidence-based practice:

Evidence-based practice (EBP) involves integrating the best available evidence from research studies, clinical expertise, and patient values and preferences to make informed decisions about patient care. For revising protocols, nurses should rely heavily on evidence-based guidelines and research literature related to specimen collection techniques, safety measures, accuracy, and quality assurance. EBP ensures that protocols are based on the latest scientific evidence, leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of care.

C. Client medical records:

Client medical records contain detailed information about individual patients, including their medical history, diagnoses, treatments, and laboratory results. While medical records are valuable for understanding specific patient needs and conditions, they are not typically used as primary sources for developing or revising unit-wide protocols. However, reviewing medical records may provide insights into specific challenges or issues related to specimen collection for certain patients.

D. Facility policy and procedures:

Facility policy and procedures manuals outline the organization's guidelines, protocols, and standards of practice for various aspects of patient care, including specimen collection. Nurses should refer to facility policies and procedures to understand existing protocols, safety measures, documentation requirements, and quality control processes related to specimen collection. While facility policies are important references, they may need to be updated based on current evidence and best practices, which is where evidence-based practice comes into play.

Explanation:

A. Administer the Hamilton depression scale:

The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale is a tool used to assess the severity of depression symptoms in individuals. While assessing the client's depression level is an important aspect of mental health assessment, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. The client has been admitted following a suicide attempt, indicating an acute risk to their safety. Therefore, the priority at this stage is to ensure the client's safety and prevent any further harm or attempts at self-harm.

B. Make a contract with the client for weight gain:

Making a contract with the client for weight gain, especially in the context of anorexia nervosa, may be an important aspect of the client's overall treatment plan. However, in this scenario, the client's immediate safety takes precedence. The client has a history of depression, substance abuse, and anorexia nervosa, and the primary concern at admission is to prevent any further self-harm or suicide attempts.

C. Review the client's toxicology laboratory report:

Reviewing the client's toxicology laboratory report is important for understanding any recent substance abuse and its potential impact on the client's physical and mental health. However, while this information is relevant to the client's overall care, it is not the first action to take upon admission. The immediate priority is to ensure the client's safety and provide appropriate monitoring and intervention to prevent further harm.

D. Initiate one-to-one nursing observation:

This is the correct answer. Initiating one-to-one nursing observation means assigning a dedicated nurse to continuously monitor and supervise the client closely. This level of observation is crucial in a situation where there is a history of suicide attempt and ongoing risk of self-harm. One-to-one observation allows for immediate intervention if the client shows signs of distress or attempts to harm themselves, ensuring their safety while they are in the acute mental health unit.