Contemporary Issues in Nursing Related

Review Contemporary Issues in Nursing related questions and content

A nurse is concerned because novice nurses are having their orientation period shortened and are being placed in charge nurse positions. The nurse has documented unsafe care and decisions by these novice nurses. To be protected from retaliation by the employer, this nurse must "blow the whistle" by:

  • A. holding a public forum in the agency cafeteria to discuss concerns.
  • B. reporting concerns to state and/or national agencies regulating the agency.
  • C. calling coworkers outside the workplace to informally discuss wrongdoing.
  • D. contacting The Joint Commission to report unsafe conditions.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice B is correct:
1. Reporting concerns to state and/or national agencies is a formal and official way to blow the whistle.
2. State and national agencies have the authority to investigate and take action on reported concerns.
3. Whistleblower protection laws often cover individuals who report to regulatory agencies.
4. This action ensures the concerns are addressed at a higher level and can protect the nurse from retaliation.

Summary of why the other choices are incorrect:
A. Holding a public forum may not provide the necessary confidentiality or protection for the nurse.
C. Informally discussing wrongdoing with coworkers may not result in formal actions to address the concerns.
D. Contacting The Joint Commission is a good option, but reporting concerns to state and/or national agencies is more direct and appropriate in this scenario.