Question

An 81-yr-old patient who has been in the intensive care unit (ICU) for a week is now stable and transfer to the progressive care unit is planned. On rounds, the nurse notices that the patient has new onset confusion. The nurse will plan to

a. give PRN lorazepam (Ativan) and cancel the transfer.
b. inform the receiving nurse and then transfer the patient.
c. notify the health care provider and postpone the transfer.
d. obtain an order for restraints as needed and transfer the patient.

Answer 1

The nurse will plan to notify the health care provider and postpone the transfer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse will plan to notify the health care provider and postpone the transfer. New onset confusion in an elderly patient can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed. It is important to involve the healthcare provider to assess the patient's condition and determine the appropriate course of action. Transferring the patient without addressing the confusion may increase the risk of harm to the patient.