It is most important to assign which client to a registered nurse rather than a practical nurse (PN)?
One hour after receiving hydromorphone prescribed for every 4 hours PRN use, a client reports severe pain.
Two hours after receiving morphine for acute pain, a client's vital signs are BP 112/60 mm Hg, pulse 88 beats/minute, and respirations 14 breaths/minute.
After ambulating, a postoperative client grimaces and reports incisional pain at a "9 on a ten-point scale".
The fentanyl transdermal patch for a client with chronic cancer pain needs to be replaced.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason: This client may need another dose of hydromorphone if the pain is not relieved by the previous one. A PN can administer this medication under the supervision of a RN and monitor the client's response.
Choice B Reason: This client's vital signs are within normal limits and indicate that the morphine is effective and not causing respiratory depression. A PN can assess and document the client's vital signs and pain level.
Choice C Reason: This is the correct answer because this client has acute and severe pain that may require immediate intervention and reassessment. An RN can evaluate the cause and severity of the pain, administer additional analgesics as prescribed, and implement nonpharmacological measures to relieve the pain.
Choice D Reason: This client has chronic and stable pain that is managed by a fentanyl patch. A PN can replace the patch according to the schedule and instructions provided by the RN.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: A client with multisystem failure secondary to a motor vehicle collision is not an appropriate assignment for the new graduate nurse. This client has complex and unstable needs that require advanced assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills. The nurse should assign this client to a nurse with 10 years experience, who has more expertise and confidence in managing critically ill clients.
Choice B Reason: A client in end-stage liver failure who is experiencing esophageal bleeding is not an appropriate assignment for the new graduate nurse. This client has a high risk of complications such as hemorrhage, infection, hepatic encephalopathy, and hepatic coma. The nurse should assign this client to a nurse with 5 years experience, who has more knowledge and skill in providing palliative care and managing bleeding disorders.
Choice C Reason: A client with Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome who is on a ventilator is not an appropriate assignment for the new graduate nurse. This client has a life-threatening condition that requires close monitoring of respiratory status, oxygenation, and hemodynamics. The nurse should assign this client to a nurse with 10 years of experience, who has more competence and proficiency in caring for ventilated clients and interpreting data from invasive devices.
Choice D Reason: A client with chest tubes secondary to a stab wound to the chest is an appropriate assignment for the new graduate nurse. This client has a relatively stable condition that requires routine care of chest tubes, pain management, and wound healing. The nurse should assign this client to the new graduate nurse, who has learned the basic principles and techniques of chest tube management during the refresher course and the internship. The charge nurse should also provide supervision and support to the new graduate nurse as needed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is not the best action because it is a medication error that can be corrected and prevented by following the rights of medication administration. The nurse manager should counsel the staff nurse and provide education on safe medication practices.
Choice B Reason: This is the best action because it is a serious breach of professional ethics and standards. The nurse manager should report the staff nurse to the PRC for falsifying documentation and compromising client care.
Choice C Reason: This is not the best action because it is a mistake that can be rectified by removing the diet tray and notifying the healthcare provider. The nurse manager should reprimand the staff nurse and review the policy on NPO status.
Choice D Reason: This is not the best action because it is a minor issue that can be resolved by communicating with the charge nurse and other staff members. The nurse manager should remind the staff nurse of the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
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