The nurse in a skilled nursing facility observes a colleague leaving printed electronic medical record (EMR) copies of a client unattended on a countertop. Which action should the nurse implement?
Send an email to facility administrators reporting the action.
Warn the colleague that copying health information is unlawful.
Dispose of the copies and continue with client care assignments.
Communicate the colleague’s activities to the unit charge nurse.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Sending an email to facility administrators reporting the action may not be the most immediate or effective way to address the situation. It could delay the necessary intervention and does not ensure that the issue is resolved promptly.
Choice B rationale
Warning the colleague that copying health information is unlawful is important, but it may not adequately address the potential breach of patient privacy and confidentiality. The colleague may already be aware of the laws but still engage in inappropriate behavior.
Choice C rationale
Disposing of the copies and continuing with client care assignments prevents further unauthorized access to patient information but does not address the issue of the colleague’s inappropriate handling of the records. It is essential to report the incident to the appropriate authority for further investigation and follow-up.
Choice D rationale
Communicating the colleague’s activities to the unit charge nurse 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.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) format is specifically designed for critical communication, particularly when reporting a change in a client’s condition to the healthcare provider. This structured communication tool ensures that essential information is conveyed clearly and concisely, reducing the risk of miscommunication and enhancing patient safety.
Choice B rationale
Completing discharge teaching to a client and family members typically involves providing comprehensive instructions and education, which may not fit the concise and focused nature of the SBAR format. Discharge teaching requires a more detailed and interactive approach to ensure understanding and compliance.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining clarification from a client’s healthcare power-of-attorney involves a more conversational and detailed exchange of information, which may not align with the structured and concise nature of the SBAR format. This interaction often requires a thorough discussion to ensure all aspects are understood.
Choice D rationale
Offering therapeutic support and comfort to a grieving family is a sensitive and empathetic interaction that requires a compassionate and patient-centered approach. The SBAR format is not suitable for this type of communication, as it is designed for conveying critical information quickly and efficiently.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Wearing gloves to dispose of the needle and syringe is a good practice to prevent needlestick injuries and contamination. However, it does not directly indicate an understanding of standard precautions, which emphasize hand hygiene as a primary measure.
Choice B rationale
Removing the needle before discarding used syringes is not recommended as it increases the risk of needlestick injuries. Standard precautions emphasize the safe disposal of sharps in puncture-resistant containers without manipulating the needle.
Choice C rationale
Donning a face mask before administering medication is not a standard precaution for handling syringes and needles. Standard precautions focus more on hand hygiene and the use of gloves when there is a risk of exposure to blood or body fluids.
Choice D rationale
Washing hands before handling the needle and syringe is a fundamental aspect of standard precautions. Hand hygiene is the most effective way to prevent the transmission of infections and is a clear indication of understanding standard precautions.