Level: Foundational
Difficulty: Easy
Subtopic: Respiratory disorders
NCLEX: A 45-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for pneumonia with increased work of breathin…
Adult health / medical-surgical nursing Physiological Adaptation
Case Study
A 45-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for pneumonia with increased work of breathing. Assessment data include surgical incision with purulent drainage and fever 101.5°F (38.6°C). Which action is appropriate within the RN scope of practice?
Question
A. Independently diagnose the medical disease and prescribe treatment.
B. Prescribe new medications without a provider order.
C. Assess, analyze cues, implement nursing interventions per orders, teach, evaluate outcomes, and question unsafe orders.
D. Delegate nursing assessment and evaluation on an unstable client.
B. Prescribe new medications without a provider order.
C. Assess, analyze cues, implement nursing interventions per orders, teach, evaluate outcomes, and question unsafe orders.
D. Delegate nursing assessment and evaluation on an unstable client.
Rationale
Correct answer: C. Assess, analyze cues, implement nursing interventions per orders, teach, evaluate outcomes, and question unsafe orders.
Rationale: RNs assess, coordinate care, teach, and evaluate. Diagnosis and prescribing are provider responsibilities.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.
Rationale: RNs assess, coordinate care, teach, and evaluate. Diagnosis and prescribing are provider responsibilities.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.