Level: Clinical
Difficulty: Medium
Subtopic: Trauma-informed care
NCLEX: A 16-year-old adolescent on an adolescent psychiatric unit is being evaluated for history of intimate partner vio…
Psychiatric / mental health nursing Psychosocial Integrity
Case Study
A 16-year-old adolescent on an adolescent psychiatric unit is being evaluated for history of intimate partner violence. Assessment data include the client is pacing aggressively, clenching fists, and refusing to sit. Which action is appropriate within the RN scope of practice?
Question
A. Assess, analyze cues, implement nursing interventions per orders, teach, evaluate outcomes, and question unsafe orders.
B. Independently diagnose the medical disease and prescribe treatment.
C. Prescribe new medications without a provider order.
D. Delegate nursing assessment and evaluation on an unstable client.
B. Independently diagnose the medical disease and prescribe treatment.
C. Prescribe new medications without a provider order.
D. Delegate nursing assessment and evaluation on an unstable client.
Rationale
Correct answer: A. 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.