A nurse is preparing to infuse a 250-mL unit of packed RBCs over 2 hours. The drop factor of the manual IV tubing is 15 gtts/mL. The nurse should adjust the flow rate to deliver how many drops per minute?

(Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Choice A reason: Ask the client to blow his nose

Asking the client to blow his nose is not advisable in this situation. Blowing the nose can increase intracranial pressure and potentially worsen the condition by causing more cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to leak or even lead to further complications. Therefore, this action should be avoided.

Choice B reason: Suction the nostril

Suctioning the nostril is also not recommended. This action can introduce infection and increase the risk of further complications. It is important to handle any potential CSF leak with care to prevent infection and other issues.

Choice C reason: Notify the physician

While notifying the physician is important, it is not the immediate first step. The nurse should first confirm whether the clear drainage is CSF. Once confirmed, notifying the physician would be the next appropriate step.

Choice D reason: Test the drainage for glucose

Testing the drainage for glucose is the correct first action. CSF contains glucose, so a positive glucose test would confirm that the drainage is indeed CSF. This is a critical step in diagnosing a CSF leak, which can occur with basal skull fractures. Confirming the presence of CSF will guide further medical interventions and management.

Choice A reason: Implement a resolution

Implementing a resolution without first understanding the root cause of the conflict can lead to ineffective solutions and may not address the underlying issues. It is essential to identify the problem first to ensure that any resolution is appropriate and effective.

Choice B reason: Evaluate the results

Evaluating the results is an important step in the conflict resolution process, but it comes after implementing a solution. Before any evaluation can take place, the problem must be identified, and a resolution must be implemented. Therefore, this step is not the first action to take.

Choice C reason: Brainstorm solutions

Brainstorming solutions is a critical part of resolving conflicts, but it should occur after the problem has been clearly identified. Without a clear understanding of the problem, brainstorming may not yield effective solutions. Identifying the problem ensures that the brainstorming session is focused and productive.

Choice D reason: Identify the problem

Identifying the problem is the first and most crucial step in resolving any conflict. Understanding the root cause of the conflict between the pharmacy and the staff nurses will provide a clear direction for developing effective solutions. This step involves gathering information, listening to all parties involved, and pinpointing the specific issues that need to be addressed.