What should a nurse do if an order seems unclear?

Choice A rationale
The right circumstance refers to the appropriate setting and resources being available for the task to be delegated. It ensures that the situation is suitable for delegation, considering factors such as the patient’s condition and the complexity of the task. However, this is not the focus of the question, which is about the nurse’s demonstration during delegation.
Choice B rationale
The right communication involves clear, concise, and complete instructions given to the assistive personnel. It ensures that the delegatee understands the task, the expected outcomes, and any specific instructions or precautions. This is the correct answer because the nurse is demonstrating effective communication during the delegation process.
Choice C rationale
The right supervision refers to the appropriate monitoring and evaluation of the task being performed by the delegatee. It ensures that the nurse provides guidance, support, and feedback as needed. While important, this is not the focus of the question, which is about the nurse’s demonstration during delegation.
Choice D rationale
The right task refers to the appropriateness of the task being delegated, ensuring it is within the delegatee’s scope of practice and competency level. It ensures that the task is suitable for delegation. However, this is not the focus of the question, which is about the nurse’s demonstration during delegation.

Choice A rationale
Ignoring the error, even if it does not affect patient care, is incorrect. Ignoring errors can lead to a culture of complacency and potentially more significant errors in the future. It is essential to address all errors to maintain accurate records and ensure patient safety.
Choice B rationale
Drawing a single line through the error, initialing, and dating it is the correct action. This method maintains the integrity of the medical record while clearly indicating that an error was made and corrected. It ensures transparency and accountability in documentation.
Choice C rationale
Leaving the error as is and informing the nurse manager is not the best practice. While informing the nurse manager is important, the error should be corrected in the medical record to prevent any potential confusion or miscommunication.
Choice D rationale
Erasing the incorrect entry and writing the correct one is incorrect. Erasing or obliterating entries in a medical record is not allowed as it can be seen as tampering with the record. It is crucial to maintain the original entry and make corrections transparently.