Level: Clinical
Difficulty: Medium
Subtopic: Opioids and pain medications
NCLEX: A 45-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for opioid analgesia after surgery. Assessmen…
Pharmacology Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies
Case Study
A 45-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for opioid analgesia after surgery. Assessment data include bleeding from the IV site and platelets below the ordered threshold. Which communication to the oncoming nurse or provider is most appropriate?
Question
A. SBAR format with specific objective findings, current status, and a clear recommendation.
B. "The client is doing fine; no issues to report."
C. Vague statements without measurable assessment data.
D. Blaming the client for nonadherence instead of stating facts.
B. "The client is doing fine; no issues to report."
C. Vague statements without measurable assessment data.
D. Blaming the client for nonadherence instead of stating facts.
Rationale
Correct answer: A. SBAR format with specific objective findings, current status, and a clear recommendation.
Rationale: Handoff and escalation require concise, objective communication such as SBAR with current assessment data.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.
Rationale: Handoff and escalation require concise, objective communication such as SBAR with current assessment data.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.