A physician writes an order to give a saline injection to a patient who has been requesting frequent meperidine (Demerol) shots. Which initial response by the LPN is best?
a. Administer the saline and carefully document the patient's response.
b. Tell the patient that the physician has ordered a placebo.
c. Tell the patient that a pain shot is being administered, without revealing exactly what it is.
d. Tell the physician that he or she is not comfortable administering saline if the patient thinks it is Demerol.
ANS: D
Use of placebos is unethical and inappropriate unless the patient has given written consent. The use of placebos is a denial of the patient's report of pain. If a placebo is ordered for a patient, discuss concerns with the physician and nurse supervisor.
You might also like to view...
A nurse is asked to consult with the local domestic violence shelter. The shelter employees state that women of Hispanic descent do not use the services offered
An employee states, "You know with all that Hispanic machismo you can bet that those women are probably being abused." The nurse recognizes that: 1. The agency should place flyers in the local schools. 2. The agency should advertise their services in the local newspaper. 3. The agency needs help to promote culturally competent values, policy, structures, and practices. 4. The agency should add a Spanish greeting on the agency's phone message.
A clinic nurse is conducting a preoperative interview with an adult patient who will soon be scheduled to undergo cardiac surgery. What interview question most directly addresses the patient's safety?
A) "What prescription and nonprescription medications do you currently take?" B) "Have you previously been admitted to the hospital, either for surgery or for medical treatment?" C) "How long do you expect to be at home recovering after your surgery?" D) "Would you say that you tend to eat a fairly healthy diet?"
When involved in phase III drug evaluation studies, what responsibilities would the nurse have?
A) Working with animals who are given experimental drugs B) Choosing appropriate patients to be involved in the drug study C) Monitoring and observing patients closely for adverse effects D) Conducting research to determine effectiveness of the drug
By choosing a career in nursing, students are already on a leadership path
Indicate whether this statement is true or false.