NCLEX: A 64-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to beneficence and no…

Ethics, legal nursing, delegation, prioritization Management of Care

Case Study

A 64-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to beneficence and nonmaleficence. Assessment data include family requests lab results by phone without verified authorization. Which documentation should the nurse record to best support safe care and communication?

Question

A. "Client fine; no changes noted."
B. Copied yesterday's note without updating current assessment data.
C. Objective assessment findings, nursing actions taken, client response, and provider notification when indicated.
D. Subjective opinions only without measurable findings.

Rationale

Correct answer: C. Objective assessment findings, nursing actions taken, client response, and provider notification when indicated.

Rationale: Safe documentation is specific, objective, and reflects assessment, intervention, response, and escalation when needed.

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

Level: Foundational

Difficulty: Easy

Subtopic: Beneficence and nonmaleficence