An interdisciplinary care team has established a treatment plan for a client admitted with acute decompensated heart failure and atrial fibrillation. The pharmacological prescriptions include a continuous intravenous heparin infusion, intravenous push furosemide, oral spironolactone, and topical nitroglycerin ointment. Which medication administration action should the practical nurse identify as being within their scope of practice?
- ATitrate the continuous intravenous heparin infusion rate according to the hospital protocol and the morning activated partial thromboplastin time.
- BAdminister the prescribed intravenous push furosemide slowly over two minutes to minimize the risk of ototoxicity.
- CBypass the electronic barcode scanning of the client's identification band before giving the spironolactone if the nurse just completed their initial shift assessment.
- Apply the topical nitroglycerin ointment to a hairless area of the chest using a dose-measuring applicator while wearing clean gloves.Answer
Answer
The practical nurse should safely apply the topical nitroglycerin ointment to the client using a dose-measuring applicator while wearing clean gloves.
Applying topical medications, such as nitroglycerin ointment, is a foundational skill within the practical nurse scope of practice. Using a dose-measuring applicator ensures correct dosing, and wearing clean gloves is a critical safety measure to prevent the nurse from absorbing the medication and experiencing adverse effects like hypotension and a severe headache.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Practical Nurse Scope of Practice in Pharmacological Therapies