NCLEX: The charge nurse on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to resource management. A…

Leadership and management Management of Care

Case Study

The charge nurse on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to resource management. Assessment data include telephone order received for a high-risk IV medication. Which assessment approach should the nurse use first?

Question

A. Begin invasive procedures before any focused assessment.
B. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.
C. Use only the chart from admission without current data.
D. Defer assessment until all medications are administered.

Rationale

Correct answer: B. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.

Rationale: Assessment begins with stability screening and focused data collection before invasive or delayed actions.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: Resource management