A patient who is admitted involuntarily with bipolar disorder, manic phase, refuses a prescribed dose of lithium. The nurse assembles a show of force and intimidates the patient into taking the medication. As an outcome of this action, the patient
a. will experience lessened mania.
b. can bring civil suit for assault and battery.
c. can sue the hospital for false imprisonment.
d. has no recourse, because the medication is in the interest of the patient's welfare.
B
A nurse who forces a patient to accept treatment or take medication in a nonemergency situation against the patient's wishes can be found liable for assault (threatening) and battery (nonconsenting touching) in civil court, even if the nurse had the best interest of the patient in mind. Diminished symptoms of mania are not likely to be related to a single dose of lithium. The scenario does not describe the conditions of false imprisonment. Actions taken in the best interest of the patient that violate the patient's rights are cause for civil action.
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The diabetic patient who had blood drawn for an HbA1c level says, "I don't know why they want to look at my hemoglobin." The most helpful reply by the nurse would be:
a. "The test is to evaluate your present level of blood sugar." b. "The HbA1c provides information relative to blood sugar levels from the past 2 to 3 months." c. "Hemoglobin levels and blood sugar levels are closely related." d. "The HbA1c tells if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes."
During an assessment of a patient's abdomen, frequent pulsations are noted in the epigastric region. What action by the nurse is indicated?
1. Document the findings as hyperactive bowel sounds. 2. Review the patient's medical records for signs and symptoms of cirrhosis, which may indicate ascites. 3. Note the time when the patient last voided. 4. Auscultate for a bruit.
Which of the following should the nurse instruct a client who is starting to take metoprolol?
1. Expect a rapid heart rate 2. Weigh daily 3. Increase fluids 4. Reduce protein intake
After death, all body processes stop immediately.
Answer the following statement true (T) or false (F)