A nurse is preparing to administer vancomycin IV to an adult client. The client asks the nurse if the medication can be given 2 hr earlier. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

This is because potassium is a medication that can cause cardiac arrest if given too quickly or in high doses. A nurse who administers potassium via IV bolus is not providing the standard of care that a similarly trained nurse would have offered under the same circumstances. This could result in harm or death to the patient.

Choice A is wrong because placing a yellow bracelet on a client who is at risk for falls is not malpractice, but rather a safety measure.

A yellow bracelet indicates that the client needs assistance with mobility and should not be left alone. This is a common practice in many health care facilities to prevent falls and injuries.

Choice B is wrong because leaving a nasogastric tube clamped after administering oral medication is not malpractice, but rather a mistake.

A nasogastric tube is a tube that goes through the nose and into the stomach to deliver nutrition or medication.

It should be unclamped after giving oral medication to allow the medication to enter the stomach and prevent reflux or aspiration. However, this error does not rise to the level of malpractice unless it causes harm to the patient, such as vomiting, choking, or infection.

Choice D is wrong because documenting communication with a provider in the progress notes of the client’s medical record is not malpractice, but rather a good practice.

This statement shows respect for the client’s spirituality and offers support without imposing the nurse’s beliefs or values. Spirituality focuses on the significance and purpose of life and can help clients cope with depression and terminal illness.

Choice B is wrong because it implies that the client needs medication to deal with their feelings, which can be dismissive and insensitive.

Antianxiety medication may be appropriate for some clients, but it should not be the first option.

Choice C is wrong because it assumes that the client is ready to discuss advance directives, which may not be the case.

Advance directives are legal documents that specify the client’s wishes for end-of-life care, such as resuscitation, organ donation, or power of attorney.

The nurse should assess the client’s readiness and understanding before initiating this conversation.

Choice D is wrong because it suggests that the client is close to death and needs hospice care, which can be discouraging and frightening. Hospice care is an interdisciplinary team effort that provides palliative care for clients who have a terminal illness and a life expectancy of less than 6 months.

The nurse should explain the benefits of hospice care and obtain the client’s consent before making a referral.