Which nursing assessment is an example of brevity and clarity while meeting legal guidelines?
“Taking fluids poorly, but more than yesterday."
"Apparently comfortable all night. Offers no complaints of pain."
"Patient says she is still slightly nauseated, would like to try some toast and tea."
"4 cm reddened area over sacrum. Skin intact, warm, and dry."
The Correct Answer is D
A. “Taking fluids poorly, but more than yesterday."
This assessment is vague (“taking fluids poorly”), lacks measurable details, and does not meet the clarity standard required in documentation.
B. "Apparently comfortable all night. Offers no complaints of pain."
“Apparently comfortable” is an assumption rather than an observable, objective statement, which could be legally questionable.
C. "Patient says she is still slightly nauseated, would like to try some toast and tea."
While this is clear, “slightly nauseated” could be more specific, and this does not objectively quantify the patient’s condition.
D. "4 cm reddened area over sacrum. Skin intact, warm, and dry."
This statement is concise, uses precise measurements, and includes objective data, meeting legal documentation guidelines.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. is packing belongings in preparation for discharge. Although discharge is an appropriate time for patient education, it may be too late to introduce complex information that requires practice or understanding. Teaching moments often occur earlier in the care process.
B. says, "How will I remember all the things about my new diet?" This is an ideal teaching moment as the patient is expressing concern and showing readiness to learn about the diet. The nurse can use this moment to provide guidance on strategies to remember dietary instructions.
C. has just returned from surgery for a deviated septum. Immediately post-surgery, the patient may be under the influence of anesthesia or pain medication, limiting their ability to absorb information. Teaching at this time may not be effective.
D. has just been told of the malignancy of his tumor. Right after receiving bad news, patients may experience shock, grief, or distress, making it difficult for them to process additional information. This may not be the right time for education.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Confuses the patient by giving information. False reassurance does not typically involve the giving of information; instead, it involves providing comforting statements that may not be truthful or realistic.
B. Shows a judgmental attitude on the part of the nurse.
False reassurance is not necessarily judgmental but is dismissive, offering unrealistic comfort rather than addressing the patient’s actual concerns.
C. Summarizes the patient's concerns and closes communication.
False reassurance does not summarize concerns; it usually bypasses them altogether, offering hollow comfort instead of genuine acknowledgment of the patient’s feelings.
D. Discounts the patient's stated concerns.
False reassurance can harm communication because it dismisses or minimizes the patient’s concerns rather than validating them, making the patient feel unheard or misunderstood.