The nurse is administering medications to a patient with high blood pressure. The patient states, "This pill made me so sick yesterday. Are you sure I have to take it now?" The nurse should:

Question

a. give the medication because no one gets sick on this pill.
b. hold the medication and check the order since there may be a lack of information.
c. give the medication since he/she is the nurse and knows what should be done.
d. give the medication since the nurse did not see the doctor come so the order is valid.

Answer 1

ANS: B
People cannot think critically about something without having knowledge about it. Knowledge deficit can cause errors in thinking. Illogical thinking is characterized by a failure to follow rational, systematic processes when approaching an issue or problem. Often making hasty generalizations and assumptions that do not consider the evidence, the illogical thinker may jump to conclusions. Errors in thinking and decision making can result from intentionally overlooking alternatives suggested by others. When relevant information from patients or experts is ignored because of closed-mindedness, nursing care can be compromised. Closed-minded individuals often believe that their way is the best and preferred way. Assumptions are beliefs that are taken for granted and assumed to be true. Assumptions can be unjustified or justified, depending on whether there are good reasons for them. Erroneous assumptions can lead to safety issues in the clinical setting.