Final answer:
Nurse-initiated interventions are independent actions undertaken by registered nurses during patient care, such as in dialysis treatments where they assess and monitor patients, and prepare equipment ensuring safety and sterility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nurse-initiated interventions, also known as independent nursing interventions, involve a range of activities that registered nurses are empowered to initiate on their own, based on patient assessment and nursing judgment. These interventions do not require direct orders from a physician or other healthcare provider but are within the scope of nursing practice. These activities focus heavily on patient safety and comfort, especially during complex treatments such as dialysis.
Within the context of dialysis treatment, nurse-initiated interventions might include reviewing patient history and current condition, assessing and responding to a patient's needs both before and during the treatment, as well as monitoring the entire dialysis process. Integral parts of these interventions include taking and reporting vital signs, preparing solutions, and ensuring that all equipment is ready and sterile for the procedure.
Additionally, nurses must ensure that the team communicates effectively, confirming that all surgical counts (of needles, sponges, and instruments) are complete and that any specimens are correctly labeled. These responsibilities highlight the critical thinking and autonomous aspect of nursing care.