A nurse manager finds that there has been an increase in urinary tract infections on the unit. To address this problem, which of the following actions should the nurse manager take first?

Choice A rationale:

Documenting client tasks at the end of the shift is not the most effective time-management skill. While documentation is important, it should be done in a timely manner to ensure accuracy and continuity of care. Waiting until the end of the shift might lead to missed details or inaccuracies.

Choice B rationale:

Gathering supplies as needed while completing an activity is a reasonable approach to time management. However, it is not the most effective skill listed. It's often more efficient to gather all necessary supplies before starting a task to minimize interruptions and maximize focus on the activity.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct choice. Grouping tasks that are in the same location allows the nurse to minimize unnecessary movement and maximize efficiency. By completing tasks in close proximity, the nurse can save time and reduce the need for multiple trips back and forth.

Choice D rationale:

Skipping breaks throughout the day to complete work on time is not a recommended time-management strategy. Adequate breaks are essential for nurses to recharge, prevent burnout, and provide safe and effective care. Skipping breaks can lead to decreased performance, increased stress, and potential errors in patient care.

Answer is c. Receiving moderate sedation.

a. Removal of staples from a surgical wound: This procedure is typically considered routine and minimally invasive, involving the removal of staples used for wound closure. While it involves physical manipulation of the wound site, it does not carry significant risks or require the alteration of the patient's consciousness. Therefore, obtaining informed consent for this procedure is not typically necessary as it falls within the standard of care for post-operative wound management.

b. Providing a sputum specimen: Collecting a sputum specimen is a non-invasive procedure commonly performed to aid in the diagnosis of respiratory conditions such as infections or chronic lung diseases. It involves expectorating mucus from the respiratory tract, which does not pose significant risks to the patient. As such, informed consent is usually not required for this procedure since it is relatively simple and does not involve any invasive interventions or alteration of consciousness.

c. Receiving moderate sedation: Correct. Moderate sedation involves the administration of drugs, typically benzodiazepines or opioids, to induce a state of decreased consciousness and relaxation while maintaining the patient's ability to respond to verbal commands and physical stimulation. This procedure carries inherent risks, including respiratory depression, cardiovascular complications, and potential allergic reactions to the medications used. Due to the potential for adverse effects and the altered state of consciousness induced by moderate sedation, informed consent is necessary to ensure that patients understand the risks and benefits of the procedure before it is performed.

d. Collection of a blood specimen for ABGs: Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis involves the collection of a blood sample from an artery, typically the radial artery in the wrist, to assess the patient's acid-base balance, oxygenation status, and ventilation. While this procedure does involve puncturing the skin and accessing the arterial blood supply, it is considered a standard diagnostic test in many clinical settings. However, the invasiveness of the procedure and potential risks such as bleeding, hematoma formation, and arterial injury may necessitate informed consent in certain situations, especially if the patient has underlying coagulopathies or other risk factors that could increase the likelihood of complications.