A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about palliative care.
Which of the following information should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale:

Charting by exception (CBE) is a documentation method in which the nurse documents only unexpected findings or significant deviations from the client's normal condition. It is based on the assumption that the client's baseline status remains within the expected range, and deviations from this norm are documented. CBE is efficient and allows nurses to focus on relevant and critical information, reducing unnecessary documentation. It is particularly useful in clinical settings where frequent assessments are needed.

Choice B rationale:

Focus charting (DAR) is another method of documenting client care that emphasizes a structured approach to documentation, with a focus on data, action, and response (DAR). While it provides a systematic way to document care, it does not necessarily limit documentation to only unexpected findings. Focus charting encourages documentation of care in a problem-oriented manner, which may include expected or routine assessments.

Choice C rationale:

Problem-oriented medical record (POMR) is a documentation system that focuses on organizing client information around specific healthcare problems or diagnoses. It encourages a problem-solving approach to care and promotes the inclusion of a comprehensive client history and care plan. POMR documentation may involve both expected and unexpected findings, so it does not limit documentation to only unexpected findings.

Choice D rationale:

SOAP documentation stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan. It is a structured method of documenting healthcare encounters. SOAP notes include a wide range of information, including both subjective (patient's description of symptoms) and objective (clinician's observations) data. While SOAP notes are organized, they do not specifically limit documentation to only unexpected findings.

The correct answer is Choice C. Secure the restraints using a quick-release tie.

Choice A rationale: Anticipate removing the restraints every 4 hr. This is incorrect because restraints should be removed more frequently to assess the client's skin integrity, circulation, and overall need for continued restraint. Best practices typically suggest removing restraints every 2 hours for these checks.

Choice B rationale: Ensure four fingers fit under the restraints to prevent constriction. This is incorrect as well. The correct practice is to ensure that only two fingers can fit under the restraints. Allowing four fingers may lead to improper restraint, increasing the risk of injury or the restraint slipping off.

Choice C rationale: Secure the restraints using a quick-release tie. This is correct because quick-release ties are designed to allow rapid removal of restraints in case of emergency, ensuring the client's safety while also maintaining restraint effectiveness.

Choice D rationale: Secure the restraints to the lowest bar of the side rail. This is incorrect because restraints should never be secured to a movable part like the side rail, as it can cause injury if the rail is adjusted. Restraints should be secured to the bed frame, which is stable and stationary.