The student nurse is reviewing topics related to laws that apply to nursing care.
The student nurse is correct in stating which one is the nurse's best defense if a patient alleges nursing negligence?

Choice C rationale:

In this situation, the nurse should continue to teach the patient about his medications despite his disinterest. It is essential for the patient to be knowledgeable about his own medications, as he will be responsible for taking them once discharged. While involving family members in the teaching process can be beneficial, the primary responsibility lies with the patient. Documenting the patient's request is also important for the record, but it does not replace the need for the patient to be informed about his medications.

Choice A rationale:

Reminding the patient of his responsibility is a good initial approach, but it should be followed by continued teaching to ensure the patient understands his medications thoroughly.

Choice B rationale:

Documenting the patient's request is important, but it does not address the patient's lack of interest in learning about his medications. The nurse should still provide education to the patient.

Choice D rationale:

Asking the patient why his wife knows about his medications is confrontational and may not be well-received by the patient. It does not address the primary issue, which is the patient's disinterest in learning about his medications.

Choice A rationale:

Moving the patient to the side of the bed is the first nursing action that should be implemented when assisting the patient to a lateral position for placement of a bedpan. This step ensures proper body mechanics and patient safety during the transfer. The nurse should assist the patient to the edge of the bed, farthest from them, and then help the patient turn onto their side, facing away from the nurse. This position facilitates the placement of the bedpan and maintains the patient's dignity and comfort.

Choice B rationale:

Placing the patient's arm over the chest is a subsequent step after moving the patient to the side of the bed. After the patient is in the lateral position, the nurse should assist in placing the uppermost arm comfortably over the chest to maintain balance and stability during the bedpan placement.

Choice C rationale:

Raising the bed to a proper working height is essential for the nurse's ergonomic safety and comfort during the procedure. However, it is not the first step in assisting the patient to a lateral position. The bed should be at a height that allows the nurse to work comfortably without straining their back, but this step comes after the patient has been safely positioned on their side.

Choice D rationale:

Turning the patient using the draw sheet is another appropriate technique for repositioning patients, especially when they are unable to assist with the movement. However, in this scenario, the nurse needs to assist the patient to a lateral position for the bedpan placement, which involves different techniques. Using a draw sheet might be necessary in other situations, such as when turning a bedridden patient in bed, but it is not the first action for placing a bedpan.