NCLEX: A 45-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for transfer from another facility with multi…

Pharmacology Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies

Case Study

A 45-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for transfer from another facility with multiple home medications. Assessment data include the client has new facial swelling and difficulty swallowing after the first dose. Which action is appropriate within the RN scope of practice?

Question

A. Independently diagnose the medical disease and prescribe treatment.
B. Assess, analyze cues, implement nursing interventions per orders, teach, evaluate outcomes, and question unsafe orders.
C. Prescribe new medications without a provider order.
D. Delegate nursing assessment and evaluation on an unstable client.

Rationale

Correct answer: B. 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.

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: Medication reconciliation