The graduate nurse is aware that the count of the unit's narcotics and controlled substances at the change of shifts should involve:
One nurse who is going off duty and one nurse coming on duty.
The unit's head nurse and a hospital pharmacist.
Everyone who has given or will be giving narcotics on both shifts.
One pharmacy technician and the unit's head or charge nurse.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Narcotics are controlled substances requiring strict accountability; two nurses—one ending and one starting the shift—verify counts to ensure accuracy and prevent diversion per regulatory standards.
Choice B reason: The head nurse and pharmacist may oversee inventory, but shift change counts involve direct caregivers for real-time accuracy, not administrative staff, ensuring immediate responsibility and oversight.
Choice C reason: Involving all nurses from both shifts is impractical and unnecessary; it dilutes accountability and increases error risk, as only two are needed to confirm the count efficiently.
Choice D reason: Pharmacy technicians lack authority over unit narcotics, and the charge nurse alone doesn’t suffice; two nurses ensure a witnessed, reliable count per hospital policy and law.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Showing the client isn’t a standard check; patients don’t verify MAR, and this step lacks relevance to the nurse’s triple-check safety protocol.
Choice B reason: Checking before returning ensures accuracy; the third check confirms the right drug post-administration, completing the three-point verification process safely.
Choice C reason: Calling the pharmacy is unrelated; label checks occur during administration, not external consultation, making this an irrelevant timing option.
Choice D reason: Colleague checks aren’t routine; the three checks are individual, and this step doesn’t align with standard MAR verification timing protocols.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Verbal instructions alone risk forgetting; arthritis may impair memory or dexterity, making a physical aid more effective for consistent adherence.
Choice B reason: Childproof caps hinder access; arthritic hands struggle with them, potentially causing missed doses rather than aiding safe administration.
Choice C reason: A pill organizer simplifies timing and dosage; it compensates for arthritis-related dexterity issues, ensuring accurate intake for a solo patient.
Choice D reason: Outdated drugs risk toxicity or inefficacy; keeping them confuses regimens, endangering the patient rather than supporting current treatment needs.
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