A practical nurse (PN) working in a long-term care facility enters the medication preparation area and observes a coworker consuming a client's prescribed liquid opioid medication. Arrange the actions the PN must take in the correct chronological order of priority.
- 1Ensure the coworker does not initiate or resume direct client care.
- 2Report the observation immediately to the nursing supervisor or facility administrator.
- 3Collaborate with the charge nurse to ensure the coworker's assigned clients are assessed and cared for.
- 4Complete an objective, factual incident report detailing the exact observations.
Answer
The correct sequence is to first prevent the coworker from providing care, then report to the supervisor, followed by ensuring continuity of care for the clients, and finally documenting the incident.
In situations involving impaired practice, the nursing process dictates that client safety is the paramount concern. The PN must first intervene to stop the impaired individual from providing care. Immediately following this, the PN must report up the chain of command so leadership can address the employee. Ensuring that the affected clients receive their care from an alternative nurse follows next. Finally, a factual incident report must be completed to legally document the event.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Impaired Practice and Mandatory Reporting Procedures