The charge nurse needs to determine if an additional nurse should be called to help staff the unit for the next shift. Which information is most important for the charge nurse to consider when making this decision?
The acuity level of the clients on the unit.
The physicians' plans to perform procedures on the unit.
The number of clients leaving the unit for diagnostic tests.
The skill level of the personnel staffing the unit.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason: This is the correct answer because the acuity level of the clients reflects their complexity and intensity of care needs. The higher the acuity level, the more time and resources are required to provide safe and quality care. The charge nurse should consider the acuity level of the clients when determining the appropriate nurse-to-client ratio and staffing needs.
Choice B Reason: The physicians' plans to perform procedures on the unit is not the most important information for the charge nurse to consider because it does not directly affect the nursing workload or staffing requirements. The charge nurse should coordinate with the physicians and other departments to ensure that the procedures are scheduled and performed safely and efficiently.
Choice C Reason: The number of clients leaving the unit for diagnostic tests is not the most important information for the charge nurse to consider because it does not indicate the level of care that the clients need or receive. The charge nurse should ensure that the clients are prepared and accompanied for their tests and that their care is continued and monitored on their return.
Choice D Reason: The skill level of the personnel staffing the unit is not the most important information for the charge nurse to consider because it does not reflect the actual demand or supply of nursing care. The charge nurse should assign and delegate tasks according to the personnel's skill level and scope of practice but also consider other factors such as client acuity, availability, and preference.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This intervention is not the best because it may take too much time and energy from the nurse, who needs to focus on the client's critical condition. The nurse may also have to repeat the same information multiple times, which can be frustrating and confusing for both the nurse and the family.
B) This intervention is not the best because it may not be feasible or appropriate at this time. The healthcare provider may be busy with other clients or procedures, and may not be able to speak with the family right away. The healthcare provider may also need to obtain the client's consent or permission before disclosing any information to the family, which may not be possible if the client is sedated.
C) This intervention is the best because it can help reduce the number and frequency of questions, and facilitate clear and consistent communication between the nurse and the family. The nurse can ask the family to choose one person who will act as their representative and spokesperson, and who will relay any information or updates to the rest of the family. This can also help respect the client's privacy and confidentiality, and prevent any conflicting or contradictory messages.
D) This intervention is not the best because it may not address the family's informational needs or preferences. The chaplain on call may provide spiritual or emotional support to the family, but may not be able to answer any medical or technical questions. The family may also have different religious or cultural beliefs that may not align with the chaplain's role or perspective.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Recording the patient's pulse volume distal to the IV site is a nursing assessment that requires clinical judgment and cannot be delegated to the UAP.
Choice B Reason: Reapplying cold compresses to the site of the extravasation is a nursing intervention that requires clinical judgment and cannot be delegated to the UAP.
Choice C Reason: Disposing of the IV tubing after the infusion is discontinued is a routine task that does not require clinical judgment and can be delegated to the UAP.
Choice D Reason: Teaching the patient about the need to keep the extremity elevated is a nursing intervention that requires clinical judgment and cannot be delegated to the UAP.
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