A practical nurse (PN) is providing in-home care for a client recovering from a recent cerebrovascular accident. While assisting with morning hygiene, the PN discovers several empty liquor bottles concealed in the bathroom linen closet and observes that the client is experiencing mild bilateral hand tremors. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial action for the PN to take?
- Document the objective findings and report them to the supervising registered nurse.Cevap
- BAsk the client, "Why are you hiding these bottles in your closet?"
- CInitiate a formal referral to an outpatient substance use recovery program.
- DInform the client's visiting family members about the discovery to ensure a safe environment.
Cevap
The most appropriate initial action is to document the objective findings and report them to the supervising registered nurse.
The correct action is to document the objective findings and notify the supervising registered nurse. Discovering concealed alcohol and noting physical symptoms like tremors suggests a high-risk behavior (substance misuse) and potential alcohol withdrawal. The practical nurse must escalate these new, significant findings to the RN, who is responsible for comprehensive assessment, modifying the nursing care plan, and coordinating interdisciplinary referrals.
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Anahtar Kavram
High Risk Behaviors and PN Scope of Practice