NCLEX: A 52-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to vaccination and he…
MicrobiologyClinical JudgmentSafety and Infection Prevention and Control
Case Study
A 52-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to vaccination and herd protection. Assessment data include watery diarrhea 8 times today after antibiotic therapy. Using the clinical judgment model, what is the nurse's first step?
Question
A. Implement the first intervention on the existing care plan without reviewing new data.
B. Evaluate discharge readiness before addressing acute findings.
C. Document the assessment at the end of the shift and continue the prior plan.
D. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.
Rationale
Correct answer: D. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.
Rationale: NCSBN clinical judgment begins with recognizing and analyzing cues before taking action or evaluating outcomes.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.