A nurse manager is reviewing the steps of the progressive discipline process prior to counseling a staff member who exhibits unprofessional behavior. Identify the sequence of steps the nurse manager should plan to take in response to the staff member's conduct. (Move the steps into the box on the right, placing them in order of performance. Use all the steps.)

A. Documenting communication with a provider in the progress notes of the client's medical record: Proper documentation of provider communication is standard nursing practice and does not constitute malpractice. It helps ensure continuity of care and legal protection.

B. Placing a yellow bracelet on a client who is at risk for falls: Implementing fall precautions, such as using a yellow wristband, is an appropriate safety measure and standard of care, not malpractice.

C. Administering potassium via IV bolus: Administering potassium as a rapid IV push is extremely dangerous and can cause cardiac arrest. This action violates the standard of care and constitutes malpractice due to potential harm to the client.

D. Leaving a nasogastric tube clamped after administering oral medication: A nasogastric (NG) tube is often clamped for a short period after administering medication to allow the medication to be absorbed. The nurse's action would only be considered negligent if they left the tube clamped for a prolonged period.

Rationale:

A. "You will need to change the IV dressing site once per week.": Central line dressings for TPN are typically changed every 48–72 hours for gauze or every 5–7 days for transparent dressings, or sooner if the dressing becomes damp, loose, or soiled, to reduce infection risk.

B. "You will need to warm the solution in the microwave before administration.": TPN solutions should never be microwaved due to the risk of uneven heating and nutrient degradation. They should be administered at room temperature.

C. "You will need to weigh the client twice per week.": Clients receiving TPN require daily weights to monitor fluid balance, nutritional status, and detect fluid retention or dehydration promptly. Twice-weekly measurements are insufficient for close monitoring.

D. "You will need to monitor the client's electrolytes daily.": TPN can cause rapid changes in fluid and electrolyte balance, so daily electrolyte monitoring allows timely adjustments to prevent complications such as hypo- or hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and metabolic imbalances.