Question

A nurse is assigned to care for an acutely ill client who will undergo peritoneal dialysis. The nurse, who has never performed peritoneal dialysis, reads the policy manual and carefully infuses the dialysate; the nurse does not ask for assistance. The client later develops peritonitis, becomes septic and dies. Is the nurse potentially liable for the client outcome?

1) True
2) False

Answer 1

The nurse is potentially liable for the death of a client after performing peritoneal dialysis without assistance and subsequent development of peritonitis, as healthcare professionals must provide competent care and recognize when to ask for help.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question revolves around whether a nurse is potentially liable for the death of a client after an attempt at peritoneal dialysis without prior experience and without asking for assistance. The development of peritonitis and subsequent sepsis, leading to the client's death, raises concerns about the nurse's responsibility in the procedure's outcome. It is true that healthcare professionals, including nurses, have a duty to provide competent care, which includes recognizing when assistance is needed. If a nurse administers a treatment incorrectly, resulting in harm to the patient, the nurse could potentially be held liable for medical malpractice under the legal principles that govern patient care.

Peritoneal dialysis must be performed with a focus on providing accurate and sterile procedures to prevent infections. Procedures should occur under direct supervision of a registered nurse, especially if the healthcare provider has no experience with the procedure. Considering the high risk associated with peritoneal dialysis and the potential complications such as peritonitis, it's critical that such procedures are carried out with utmost care, adhering to the required medical standards and protocols.