Which statement is true regarding the general delegation liability of the registered nurse (RN)?

It is high because the RN is automatically held liable for the tasks delegated to all recognized subordinates.

It is minimal because subordinates alone are held accountable for practicing within the accepted scope of practice for their job classification.

is reduced when the RN delegates appropriately and supervises the completion of the tasks.

It is avoided entirely as long as the nurse delegates only other licensed personnel

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   While RNs can be held liable for their actions and, to some extent, for the actions of those they delegate to, liability is not automatic for all tasks delegated. Liability depends on whether the RN acted appropriately in the delegation process and whether the delegated tasks were performed within the subordinate's scope of practice.
B.   While subordinates are accountable for their actions, RNs also share responsibility when they delegate tasks. If the RN delegates a task inappropriately or fails to supervise adequately, they may still be held liable for any resulting harm.
C.   This statement is true. When RNs delegate tasks appropriately, ensuring that they are within the subordinate's scope of practice and providing adequate supervision, their liability is reduced. Proper delegation includes assessing the situation, providing clear instructions, and monitoring the outcomes.
D.   While delegating to licensed personnel may reduce some liability, it does not eliminate it entirely. RNs still have a duty to ensure that the tasks delegated are appropriate for the individual’s scope of practice and to provide supervision.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. While it’s true that surgery itself is beyond the nurse's scope of practice, liability can still arise from the actions taken in relation to the consent process. The issue is not about the surgery itself but about the responsibility associated with witnessing the consent.
B. The nurse’s role in this context is to witness the client’s signature, not to guarantee the client’s understanding of the procedure or the risks involved. The witness signature generally indicates that the nurse observed the client signing the document but does not imply that the nurse ensured the client understood all aspects of the surgery.
C. Cosigning a consent form does not make the nurse an equal member of the surgical team in terms of decision-making or responsibilities. The nurse's role as a witness is limited to observing the signing process.
D. The nurse’s signature does not imply that they confirmed the client's understanding of the risks involved. The responsibility for explaining the risks and ensuring the client’s understanding typically falls to the physician or surgeon.

A. Promptly confront the nurse to discuss this suspicion B. Ask the other nurses and staff members on the unit if they have noticed the same thing C. Document this finding and communicate with the personnel department D. Monitor the nurse's behavior closely for the remainder of the shift

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. While it is important to address concerns about impairment, confronting the nurse directly can be counterproductive and may escalate the situation. It is essential to approach the situation with caution and follow established protocols for dealing with suspected substance impairment.
B. While gathering observations from colleagues may seem reasonable, it can create a culture of gossip and may violate confidentiality. This approach can also lead to misinformation and should not be the first step in addressing a serious concern about a colleague's safety and well-being.
C. Documenting observations is important, but it should not be the sole action taken at this point. Communicating with the personnel department is part of the process if the situation escalates, but immediate action is necessary to ensure patient safety.
D. This option is the most appropriate initial action. By closely monitoring the nurse’s behavior, the manager can gather more information before taking further steps. This approach allows for the collection of objective data and ensures patient safety while avoiding premature accusations.

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Which statement is true regarding the general delegation liability of the registered nurse (RN)?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The preoperative admitting nurse witnessed a client sign an operative consent form. The nurse then cosigned the same document as a witness. The client suffered an injury during surgery and names the nurse in the suit because the nurse witnessed the consent form. What is the most likely outcome?.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is uncharacteristically extroverted on today's shift, with an unsteady gait. The manager suspects that the nurse may be chemically Impaired. What is the manager's most appropriate action?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Which of the following behaviors would not have disciplinary or legal consequences?

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A nurse is planning to assign care activities to nursing assistive personnel (NAP) on her team. Which of the following activities can the nurse assign to the NAP? [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]

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In which situation would the nurse be justified in overriding a client's right to confidentiality?