NCLEX: A 52-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for communicable respiratory infection. Assess…

Microbiology Safety and Infection Prevention and Control

Case Study

A 52-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for communicable respiratory infection. Assessment data include isolation precautions ordered for confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis. 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. Subjective opinions only without measurable findings.
D. Objective assessment findings, nursing actions taken, client response, and provider notification when indicated.

Rationale

Correct answer: D. 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: Clinical

Difficulty: Medium

Subtopic: Transmission-based precautions