A physician complains to administration that the nurse working last evening is unethical, based on observing the nurse educate the patient about a new medication ordered
The physician demanded the nurse be reprimanded and reminded that only physicians have the educational background to teach patients about new medications. Which comment and action by the administrator would be most effective in changing nurse-physician relationships in this instance?
a. Inform the nurse, "You will be suspended for 3 days for going beyond your job description," and enforce the 3-day suspension because the physician did not write the order to "teach the patient about the new medication"
b. Advise the physician that only nurses can teach patients about medications; the physician's role is to only prescribe. No action will be taken against the nurse.
c. After investigating the situation, thank the physician while also providing information that patient education related to medication is within the scope of practice of registered nurses. Share the physician's concern and administrator's response with the nurse so both parties are aware of the resolution of the concerns.
d. Contact the patient's family and ask, "Do you prefer that all teaching related to medications be performed by the physician rather than the nurse" to determine what action to take.
ANS: C
Correct: Investigating the situation to provide evidence is the first step. Once the facts are known, action can be taken. In this instance, including the ethics committee would help ensure an unbiased decision.
Incorrect:
a. The nurse should not be suspended unless an error occurred.
b. Both physicians and nurses are prepared to teach patients.
d. The patient's family should not be involved at this point. The scope of practice of the RN allows for patient teaching.
You might also like to view...
Which of the following is a risk factor for the development of delirium in older adults?
1. A lack of rigorous exercise that leads to decreased cerebral blood flow 2. Decreased social interaction that leads to profound isolation and psychosis 3. Administration of multiple medications that may cause drug–drug interactions or toxicity 4. Age-related cognitive changes that make older adult clients more susceptible to changes in mental status
Based on the understanding of the effects of chemotherapy, the nurse would anticipate which of the following clinical findings in a client 2 weeks posttherapy?
A) Change in hair color B) Elevated temperature C) Elevated white blood cells count D) Ease of bruising
What is the nurse's best defense if a patient alleges nursing negligence?
A) testimony of other nurses C) patient's record B) testimony of expert witnesses D) patient's family
The nurse is explaining the development of rickets to a group of new parents. In addition to a vitamin D deficiency which other nutrients should the nurse explain are also decreased?
A) Calcium and phosphorus B) Vitamin C and thiamine C) Riboflavin and niacin D) Iron and potassium