HESI RN CAT Exit Exam 1 Related

Review HESI RN CAT Exit Exam 1 related questions and content

The nurse working in an emergency center collects physical evidence 6 hours following a reported sexual assault. After placing the samples in sealed containers, which action is most important for the nurse to implement?

  • A. Maintain possession of the evidence collection kit at all times until submitted to law enforcement
  • B. Provide discharge instructions for prophylactic antibiotics, pregnancy, and HIV prevention medication
  • C. Document the characteristics of the various sites of sample collection
  • D. Assist the client with toileting, hygiene, and dressing with clean clothes
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Maintaining possession of the evidence collection kit at all times until submitted to law enforcement is crucial to ensure the integrity of the chain of custody. This step helps prevent tampering or contamination of the evidence, which is vital for the legal process. Providing discharge instructions for medications, documenting sample characteristics, and assisting the client with personal care are important aspects of care but not the immediate priority when handling forensic evidence in a sexual assault case.