Author Question: The nurse documents in a client's medical record: The client is a drug addict and is always asking ... (Read 137 times)

jho37 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The nurse documents in a client's medical record: The client is a drug addict and is always asking for more medication than what is necessary. With what might the nurse be charged?

1. Defamation
2. Slander
3. Libel
4. Incompetence

Question 2

A client scheduled for surgery has signed the consent form but refuses to have a Foley catheter placed, saying That's not part of the surgery. What should the nurse do?

1. Explain that this is part of the surgical prep and continue with the procedure.
2. Explain that the client has already signed the consent, and place the catheter.
3. Respect the client's wishes and document accordingly.
4. Offer to call the physician.

courtney_bruh · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Defamation is verbal communication that is false or made with a careless disregard for the truth and that results in injury to the reputation of a person.
Rationale 2: Slander is defamation by the spoken word.
Rationale 3: Libel is defamation of character by means of print, writing, or pictures. Putting a statement such as this in the client's medical record is, first, making a diagnosis, which the nurse is not qualified to do, and, second, making an assumption about the client's need for medication, which is a personal attitude about how the client responds.
Rationale 4: Incompetence relates to the ineffective or improper execution of nursing tasks.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Battery exists when there is not consent, even if the client was not asked. In this case, the client has the right to refuse other treatment surrounding pre- and post-op care.
Rationale 2: Battery exists when there is not consent, even if the client was not asked. In this case, the client has the right to refuse other treatment surrounding pre- and post-op care.
Rationale 3: Consent is required before procedures are performed. Depending on the invasiveness of the procedure, a written consent may be required. The client signed a consent form for surgery, and the refusal for placement of a catheter should be respected. The nurse should document the incident and not continue with the procedure.
Rationale 4: Calling the physician is not inappropriate.