A nurse is preparing to administer morphine 4 mg IV bolus to a client who reports pain. Available is morphine 10 mg/mL. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Have another nurse witness the disposal of the extra medication.
Discard the extra medication in a sharps container.
Save the extra medication for a later dosing.
Send the waste amount to the pharmacy.
The Correct Answer is A
A. In many institutions, when a nurse administers a controlled substance and has leftover medication, it is standard practice to have another nurse witness the disposal of the excess. This is a safeguard against misuse and ensures accountability.
B. While a sharps container is appropriate for disposing of needles and other sharp objects, it is not suitable for liquid medications. Discarding liquid medications in a sharps container could lead to contamination and is not compliant with disposal protocols.
C. Medications, especially controlled substances, should never be saved for later use once they have been drawn up or prepared. This practice poses a significant risk for medication errors and misuse.
D. Generally, the waste amount is not sent to the pharmacy. Instead, it should be wasted according to the facility's policy, typically in the presence of another nurse. Sending it to the pharmacy is unnecessary and could create logistical complications.
Nursing Test Bank
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 B
Explanation
A. While LPNs can perform some assessments, the charge nurse should assign this task to an RN. Assessing hydration status requires critical thinking and a comprehensive understanding of the client's overall clinical condition, which typically falls within the RN’s scope of practice.
B. Administering medications, including antibiotics like metronidazole, is within the scope of practice for LPNs. As long as the LPN is competent in administering medications and there are no specific contraindications for the client, this task can be appropriately assigned.
C. This task involves critical thinking and comprehensive analysis of the client's medical history, which is typically conducted by an RN. While LPNs may review aspects of the medical history, the charge nurse should assign more complex evaluations and assessments to RNs.
D. While LPNs can provide some patient education, explaining the rationale behind specific tests, especially in the context of complex infections, typically requires the knowledge and expertise of an RN. This task may involve more detailed clinical reasoning and the ability to address specific questions and concerns that the client or family may have.
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