A nurse manager is discussing critical pathway use during a staff meeting. Which of the following information should the nurse manager include as an outcome of critical pathway use?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because requesting orientation to the medical-surgical unit is not the first action the nurse should take. Orientation is a process that takes time and planning, and it may not be feasible or necessary for a temporary assignment. The nurse should first ensure that they are competent to perform the tasks and procedures required on the medical-surgical unit.

Choice B reason: This is not the correct choice because referring to the assigned resource nurse regarding client assignments is not the first action the nurse should take. The resource nurse is a person who can provide guidance and support to the nurse during the shift, but they are not responsible for determining the nurse's competencies or assigning clients. The nurse should first communicate with the charge nurse, who is the leader of the unit and has the authority to assign clients according to the nurse's skills and experience.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct choice because informing the nursing supervisor of the lack of experience on the medical-surgical unit is not the first action the nurse should take. The nursing supervisor is a person who can oversee the staffing and operations of the nursing units, but they are not directly involved in the clinical care of the clients or the education of the staff. The nurse should first consult with the charge nurse, who can assess the nurse's competencies and provide appropriate resources and education.

Choice D reason: This is the correct choice because clarifying competencies with the medical-surgical charge nurse is the first action the nurse should take. The charge nurse is a person who can evaluate the nurse's skills and knowledge, assign clients according to the nurse's level of expertise, and provide orientation and training as needed. The nurse should be honest and proactive in communicating their competencies and learning needs to the charge nurse.

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect action by the unit nurse. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is not effective against Clostridium difficile spores, which can cause severe diarrhea and colitis. The nurse should wash their hands with soap and water after removing gloves to prevent the spread of the infection.

Choice B reason: This is a correct action by the unit nurse. Wearing goggles when emptying the bedpan of liquid stool is a standard precaution that protects the nurse's eyes from exposure to body fluids. The nurse should also wear gloves and a gown when handling the bedpan.

Choice C reason: This is a correct action by the unit nurse. Placing the client in contact precautions is an appropriate measure for clients who have Clostridium difficile. Contact precautions prevent direct or indirect transmission of the infection through contact with the client or the client's environment. The nurse should use a single room or cohort the client with another client who has the same infection.

Choice D reason: This is a correct action by the unit nurse. Cleaning contaminated equipment with bleach-based solution is an effective way to kill Clostridium difficile spores, which can survive on surfaces for a long time. The nurse should follow the manufacturer's instructions for the dilution and contact time of the bleach solution.