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?

Rationale:

A. "I recommend that you take this medication as prescribed.": This response dismisses the client’s concern and does not address the possibility of a medication error. It can also undermine trust and ignores the need for verification before administration.

B. "I will call the pharmacist now to check on this medication.": This is the most appropriate response because it prioritizes client safety by verifying the medication before administration. It also acknowledges the client’s concern and involves a qualified resource for confirmation.

C. "Did the doctor discuss with you that there was a change in this medication?": While this could provide insight into changes in therapy, it delays immediate verification and does not address the need to confirm the medication’s accuracy before giving it.

D. "Do you know why this medication is being prescribed for you?": This may promote client education, but it does not address the immediate safety concern or the need to verify the medication before administration.

Rationale:

A. Record information about the home visit according to agency policy: Documentation is performed at the end of the visit to ensure that all observations, interventions, and plans are accurately recorded in the client’s record for continuity of care.

B. Contact the family to determine availability and readiness to make an appointment: Before visiting, the nurse should coordinate with the family to schedule a convenient time, ensuring that they are prepared for the assessment and intervention process.

C. Discuss plans for future visits with the family: After assessing the client and identifying needs, the nurse should collaborate with the family to plan ongoing visits and care strategies that align with their goals and availability.

D. Clarify the reason for the referral with the provider's office: This is the first step to ensure the nurse understands the purpose of the referral, specific concerns, and any important background information before contacting the family.

E. Identify family needs and interventions using the nursing process: During the visit, the nurse collects data, assesses needs, and develops appropriate interventions, forming the foundation for the care plan moving forward.