Contemporary Ethical Issues in Nursing Related

Review Contemporary Ethical Issues in Nursing related questions and content

Which of the following situations would be appropriate for the supervisory level of initial direction and/or periodic inspection?

  • A. Experienced RNs work together to provide care for a group of patients newly diagnosed with meningitis.
  • B. The RN assigns the LPN tasks within her scope of practice and checks back during the shift to ensure the tasks are completed correctly.
  • C. A new graduate nurse is assigned care to a male patient with a hematocrit of 11.0 g of hemoglobin per deciliter and is receiving a blood transfusion. The charge nurse checks on the patient status every 15 to 30 minutes and asks the graduate to explain "next steps."
  • D. No supervision is necessary since both are registered nurses.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the scenario describes a situation appropriate for the supervisory level of initial direction and periodic inspection. The RN assigning tasks to the LPN within her scope of practice and checking back ensures tasks are completed correctly, aligning with the supervisory role. This level of oversight is necessary for safe and effective patient care.

Choice A is incorrect as experienced RNs working together do not require supervisory direction for caring for patients. Choice C involves the charge nurse providing frequent oversight to a new graduate nurse, which is more than just periodic inspection. Choice D is incorrect because regardless of both being registered nurses, supervision may still be necessary, especially when assigning tasks to a different level of healthcare provider like an LPN.