Question

Difficulty: MediumClient Care Assignments and Collaboration

Following a multidisciplinary care conference for a client recovering from a newly created ascending colostomy, the registered nurse (RN) delegates several follow-up responsibilities. Which of the following tasks should the practical nurse (PN) recognize as appropriate to accept?

  1. Reinforcing the steps for emptying the ostomy pouch that were initially demonstrated by the wound care nurse.Answer
  2. B
    Completing the comprehensive admission assessment of the stoma and surrounding peristomal skin.
  3. C
    Explaining the potential complications and alternatives for a planned stoma revision surgery.
  4. D
    Providing an update regarding the client's surgical outcome to a concerned neighbor in the waiting area.

Answer

The task involving reinforcing the steps for emptying the ostomy pouch is appropriate for the practical nurse to accept.
The correct answer identifies that reinforcing previously provided education is firmly within the practical nurse's scope of practice. Once a registered nurse or specialist has completed the initial teaching and assessed the client's baseline understanding, the PN can safely review the information, answer clarifying questions, and observe the client's return demonstration.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the legal scope of practice for the Practical Nurse (PN) regarding client education, assessment, and communication.
The PN can collect data, reinforce teaching, and perform established care routines, but cannot perform initial comprehensive assessments or provide initial education.
Delegated tasks must align with the PN's licensure, educational preparation, and facility policies.
2
Evaluate the option involving reinforcement of teaching.
Reinforcing ostomy care steps initially taught by an RN or specialist is a safe and appropriate delegation for a PN.
The initial assessment of learning needs has already been established by the RN.
3
Evaluate the distractors against safe practice guidelines and regulations.
Comprehensive assessments, explaining surgical risks, and sharing unauthorized information are identified as inappropriate.
These actions violate the PN scope of practice, the provider's role in informed consent, and client confidentiality rules, respectively.

Key Concept

Client Care Assignments and Collaboration
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Rate this question