Question

A nurse who completed their shift realized they forgot to take a client's vital signs as frequently as prescribed. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to uphold the American Nurses Associations Code of Ethics for nurses w/ interpretive statements?

a. take the client's vital signs now & document them as being completed 8 hr earlier
b. document vital signs that are the same as those obtained
c. make reminder note to be more diligent next day
d. report this omission to charge nurse and the nurse on the next shift

Answer 1

The nurse should report the missed vital signs to the charge nurse and the nurse on the next shift, ensuring transparency and accountability. This aligns with the American Nurses Association's Code of Ethics and safeguards patient care.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse has a professional and ethical obligation to address the mistake made during their shift. According to the American Nurses Association's Code of Ethics, the appropriate action is to report the omission to the charge nurse and the nurse on the next shift. This action ensures that patient care is not compromised and that there is accountability and transparency in nursing practice. Falsifying documents or failing to report errors can result in serious implications for patient safety and the nurse's professional standing.

It is important for the nurse to take the initiative to prevent future omissions by creating reminders or implementing a system of checks that alert them to perform such important tasks. However, addressing the current omission takes priority. After reporting to the appropriate personnel, the nurse should also reflect on this event to improve their practice and prevent similar incidents in the future.