A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is caring for a client who states that she plans to leave the facility against medical advice. For which of the following actions by the nurse should the charge nurse intervene?
Asks the client what her plans are for follow-up care
Asks the client to sign a form releasing the hospital from legal responsibility
Shows the client her abnormal laboratory results
Asks security to detain the client until the provider is notified
None
None
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Asks the client what her plans are for follow-up care: This is an appropriate action that demonstrates concern for the client’s continuity of care and safety, even if she decides to leave against medical advice.
B. Asks the client to sign a form releasing the hospital from legal responsibility: This is standard practice when a client leaves against medical advice, as it documents that the client was informed of potential risks and chose to leave voluntarily. This action is appropriate and does not require the charge nurse to intervene.
C. Shows the client her abnormal laboratory results: Providing relevant medical information is appropriate to help the client make an informed decision about her care before leaving the facility.
D. Asks security to detain the client until the provider is notified: Clients have the legal right to leave a healthcare facility unless they are under specific legal or mental health holds. Detaining a competent adult against their will is unlawful and violates patient rights hence requiring intervention by the charge nurse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Explaining the steps for a 24-hr urine collection: Teaching and explaining procedures require nursing knowledge and judgment, which are outside the scope of practice for assistive personnel.
B. Interpreting blood glucose values: Interpretation of lab results requires clinical judgment and assessment skills, which must be performed by a licensed nurse.
C. Performing postmortem care: Postmortem care is a noninvasive task that focuses on preparing the body, maintaining dignity, and basic hygiene. This task is within the scope of practice for assistive personnel.
D. Assisting with low-carbohydrate diet selections: Assisting with dietary teaching or making food choices involves clinical guidance and education, which must be performed by a licensed nurse or dietitian rather than an assistive personnel.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.