NCLEX: A 64-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to priority setting….

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 priority setting. Assessment data include family requests lab results by phone without verified authorization. Which communication to the oncoming nurse or provider is most appropriate?

Question

A. "The client is doing fine; no issues to report."
B. SBAR format with specific objective findings, current status, and a clear recommendation.
C. Vague statements without measurable assessment data.
D. Blaming the client for nonadherence instead of stating facts.

Rationale

Correct answer: B. SBAR format with specific objective findings, current status, and a clear recommendation.

Rationale: Handoff and escalation require concise, objective communication such as SBAR with current assessment data.

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

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: Priority setting