Question

A nurse asks a newly hired assistive personnel (AP) to remove a client's indwelling urinary catheter. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure the AP is qualified to perform this task?

A) Ask the AP to demonstrate previous experience in a similar task on a different patient.
B) Provide the AP with the steps and guidelines for catheter removal and observe the AP's technique.
C) Request the AP to read the hospital's policy on catheter removal and sign a confirmation of understanding.
D) Instruct the AP to seek guidance from another experienced nurse before attempting the catheter removal.

Answer 1

The nurse should provide the newly hired AP with guidelines for catheter removal and observe their technique to ensure they are qualified to perform the task safely and correctly. The direct observation offers immediate feedback and correction, if needed.

Step-by-step explanation:

To ensure that a newly hired assistive personnel (AP) is qualified to perform the task of removing a client's indwelling urinary catheter, the nurse should take several steps. The best approach would be option B, where the nurse provides the AP with the steps and guidelines for catheter removal and observes the AP's technique. This allows the nurse to verify that the AP can perform the procedure correctly and safely. Direct supervision enables immediate feedback and correction of any mistakes, ensuring patient safety and procedural compliance. It is essential that any healthcare provider performing this task is familiar with the process and understands the importance of maintaining a sterile field to prevent infections.

Option A would not be sufficient on its own, as demonstration of previous experience does not guarantee current competency or situational awareness. Option C only confirms theoretical understanding without ensuring practical skill, and option D delegates responsibility to another nurse, which may not ensure direct oversight or proper assessment of the AP's capabilities. Therefore, direct observation and guidance by the nurse currently responsible for the patient is paramount.

It is vital for the nurse to use a checklist to ensure all steps are followed, similar to how ICU doctors use checklists for inserting central intravenous lines. The AP must understand all precautions and the specific process, from confirming the patient's identity and the name of the procedure to ensuring all equipment issues are addressed and documented.