The nurse in a skilled nursing facility observes a colleague leaving printed electronic medical record (EMR) copies of a client unattended on a counter top. Which action should the nurse implement?
Warn the colleague that copying health information is unlawful.
Send an email to facility administrators reporting the action.
Communicate the colleague's activities to the unit charge nurse.
Dispose the copies and continue with client care assignments.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Warn the colleague that copying health information is unlawful:
While informing the colleague about the unlawful nature of copying health information is important, it may not adequately address the potential breach of patient privacy and confidentiality. Additionally, the colleague may be aware of the laws but still engage in inappropriate behavior.
B. Send an email to facility administrators reporting the action:
Reporting the colleague's actions to facility administrators may be necessary, but it may not be the most immediate action to take. Informing the unit charge nurse allows for more immediate intervention and resolution within the unit.
C. Communicate the colleague's activities to the unit charge nurse:
This is the most appropriate action because it informs the person in charge of the unit about the observed behavior, allowing for immediate intervention and potential corrective action. The unit charge nurse can address the situation promptly and ensure that patient privacy and confidentiality are maintained.
D. Dispose the copies and continue with client care assignments:
While disposing of the copies may prevent further unauthorized access to patient information, it does not address the issue of the colleague's inappropriate handling of the records. It's essential to report the incident to the appropriate authority for further investigation and follow-up.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Clamping the urinary catheter prior to the collection:
This step involves temporarily stopping the flow of urine through the catheter. Whether gloves are needed for this step depends on the specific protocol and the potential risk of exposure to bodily fluids. If there's a possibility of urine leakage or splashing during the clamping process, gloves may be necessary to protect against contact with the urine.
B. Recording the output on the flowsheet in the client's room:
This step involves documenting the urine output on a flowsheet or chart. It typically does not require direct contact with bodily fluids, as the nurse is handling paperwork rather than the urine itself. Therefore, gloves are usually not necessary for this task.
C. Transporting the urine specimen to the laboratory:
Once the urine specimen has been collected and properly sealed in a biohazard bag, the nurse transports it to the laboratory for analysis. As long as the specimen is securely packaged, there is no need for gloves during transportation unless there is a risk of spillage or leakage. However, if there is a possibility of contact with bodily fluids due to leakage, gloves should be worn to protect against exposure.
D. Using the syringe to remove the specimen from the catheter:
This step involves using a sterile syringe to withdraw the urine from the catheter for collection. Since it involves direct contact with bodily fluids (i.e., urine), gloves are necessary to protect against potential exposure to pathogens. Wearing gloves during this step helps maintain proper infection control practices and minimizes the risk of contamination.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Advise the UAP to wear a standard face mask to obtain vital signs, and then get fitted for a filter mask before providing personal care:
This option might be tempting but is not appropriate because the UAP should be properly equipped with the correct protective gear before any contact with the client. Bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, and a standard face mask is sufficient for this type of precaution, not a particulate filter mask.
B. Send the UAP to be fitted for a particulate filter mask immediately so the UAP can provide care to this client:
This action is unnecessary because bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, which only necessitate a standard surgical mask, not a particulate filter mask like an N95, which is used for airborne precautions. This option indicates a misunderstanding of the type of precautions needed for bacterial meningitis.
C. Instruct the UAP that a standard face mask is sufficient to be able to provide care for the assigned client:
This is the correct course of action. Bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, which only require a standard face mask. The UAP can safely provide care using a standard mask.
D. Before changing assignments, determine which staff members have fitted particulate filter masks:
While it is prudent to know which staff members are fitted for particulate filter masks, this is not necessary for caring for a client with bacterial meningitis under droplet precautions. The focus should be on ensuring the UAP understands that a standard mask is sufficient.
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