When an RN is asked to accept an assignment that he or she may not be qualified to perform, the nurse should:
a. accept the assignment as appropriate if assigned by a legitimate power.
b. be primarily concerned with the number of patients being assigned.
c. ask how other nurses have handled the assignment in the past.
d. determine whether he or she is familiar with the types of patients being assigned.
ANS: D
Correct: Nurses should always think critically about assignments so they can communicate what makes them uncomfortable about a particular assignment. If nurses do not have the knowledge or experience required for particular patient assignments, then modification of the assignments is in order to ensure patient safety.
Incorrect:
a. Even if the person who makes the assignment has legitimate power, he or she may not be aware of the nurse's work experience and training.
b. The nurse should not respond on the basis of the actual number of patients assigned but should consider the needs of each patient, his or her age and condition, other factors that contribute to special needs, and the resources available to meet those needs.
c. Each nurse possesses individual expertise. Basing decisions on the actions and capabilities of others is incorrect and is potentially unsafe for the patient.
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