Question

The nurse has just reviewed discharge instructions with the adolescent. Which of the following indicates whether the adolescent understands the teaching or requires further education? For each of the statements made by the adolescent, click to specify whether the statement indicates an understanding or requires further education.

Option 1:
"I will continue taking the prescribed antibiotics until they are finished."

Option 2:
"I might skip a few doses if I start feeling better."

Option 3:
"I understand the importance of regular follow-up appointments."

Option 4:
"I don't need to inform my healthcare provider about any new medications I start taking."

Answer 1

The adolescent's understanding of discharge instructions can be evaluated by their statements regarding the use of antibiotics and the importance of follow-up care. Statements confirming the completion of prescribed antibiotics and recognizing the need for regular check-ups indicate understanding, while any intent to skip doses or not report new medications to their healthcare provider shows a need for further education.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse can assess whether an adolescent understands discharge instructions based on the teenager's responses to various statements about their care after leaving the healthcare facility. By evaluating these statements, we can determine their need for further education.

• "I will continue taking the prescribed antibiotics until they are finished." - This statement indicates an understanding of the necessity to complete the full course of antibiotics to prevent the development of drug-resistant bacteria and ensure the infection is fully treated.
• "I might skip a few doses if I start feeling better." - This statement requires further education because it's important to finish the prescribed course of antibiotics even when feeling better to avoid the risk of the infection not being fully eradicated and potentially becoming resistant.
• "I understand the importance of regular follow-up appointments." - This indicates an understanding as follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring progress and ensuring recovery.
• "I don't need to inform my healthcare provider about any new medications I start taking." - This statement requires further education because healthcare providers should be informed about all medications to avoid interactions and ensure proper treatment.

Evaluation of Adolescent's Statements

Options 1 and 3 indicate a good understanding of discharge instructions. Options 2 and 4, however, reveal a lack of understanding and signify a need for the healthcare provider to offer more education on these points.