Current Issues in Maternal and Child Health Related

Review Current Issues in Maternal and Child Health related questions and content

Which nursing intervention is an independent function of the professional nurse?

  • A. Administering oral analgesics
  • B. Requesting diagnostic studies
  • C. Teaching the patient perineal care
  • D. Providing wound care to a surgical incision
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering oral analgesics is an independent function of the professional nurse. Independent nursing interventions are those that a nurse is licensed to initiate based on their knowledge and skills without needing an order from a healthcare provider. Nurses are educated and trained in medication administration, including oral analgesics, and can independently assess the need for and safely administer them within their scope of practice. While requesting diagnostic studies, teaching perineal care, and providing wound care are essential nursing interventions, they typically require some form of healthcare provider's order or supervision, making them more interdependent activities.