Question

Nursing interventions should be documented according to specific criteria in order that they may be clearly understood by other members of the nursing team. The most appropriate of the following intervention statements is the following:

1. "Take vital signs."
2. "Refer client to a therapist."
3. "Turn client as needed while in bed."
4. "Apply two 4 × 4 dry gauze dressing pads tid."

Answer 1

Option 4, 'Apply two 4 × 4 dry gauze dressing pads tid,' is the most precise and clear nursing intervention statement for proper documentation. It includes necessary details such as the action and frequency, ensuring clarity for the nursing team and consistency in patient care.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate nursing intervention statement that aligns with proper documentation criteria is option 4: "Apply two 4 × 4 dry gauze dressing pads tid." This statement is specific and clear, indicating both the action to be taken and the frequency (three times a day). Precise documentation like this ensures that all members of the nursing team, including those under direct supervision of a registered nurse, can understand the required intervention without ambiguity, leading to consistency in patient care. Nursing interventions should detail the nature of the action, timing, and any particular conditions necessary to perform it effectively. For instance, every intervention should be as specific as the one where the nurse reviews the vital signs to direct the treatment such as in the case of a patient's fever, a sign of disease.

In clinical practice, details like the ones described in the chosen intervention are crucial. Borrowing from Dr. Pronovost's checklist method, accuracy and adherence to a structured protocol can significantly improve patient outcomes. This is vital when monitoring for signs of disease, such as temperature and heart rate, both of which can serve as objective, measurable health indicators.