Safe, Effective Care Environment
74. An RN observes another RN speaking harshly and reprimanding a client for being incontinent. What action should be taken?
Safe, Effective Care Environment
74. An RN observes another RN speaking harshly and reprimanding a client for being incontinent. What action should be taken?
. Intervene and tell the RN that a report on client abuse will be made.
. Document the incident on the client's chart.
. Advise the supervisor by writing an objective account of the incident.
. Discuss the incident with the RN, and the nurses can then change the assignment between themselves.
Test-Taking Tip
Look for the most comprehensive action that ensures client safety and protects all clients. The key word in Answer 3 is "objective."
Content Area: Management of Care, Advocacy; Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Safe and Effective Care Environment/Safety and Infection Control/Reporting of Incident/Event/Irregular Occurrence/Variance
Safe, Effective Care Environment
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Answer 1 is incorrect because confronting the RN may escalate the situation and result in conflict. This choice does not resolve the basic issue of client abuse by the staff member. Answer 2 is incorrect because documentation may compound the situation, creating legal ramifications. Answer 3 is correct. Objective reporting allows for client advocacy while maintaining anonymity for the staff. It allows the supervisor to initiate corrective and therapeutic action with the person who is abusive, while protecting clients from such abuse in the future. Appropriate action is objective reporting and following the agency's chain of command. Answer 4 is incorrect because it is a temporary measure and does not address the basic problem.