Question

The licensed practical nurse (LPN) is assigned to care for a 4-year-old child who had a Harrington rod inserted the day before and notices the client is receiving antibiotics by a syringe pump. The nurse is IV certified, but uncomfortable because they are unfamiliar with the equipment. What would be the best course of action?

Answer 1

A licensed practical nurse unfamiliar with a syringe pump should seek assistance from a knowledgeable colleague, review equipment manuals, or request a demonstration to ensure safe and correct patient care.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best course of action for a licensed practical nurse (LPN) who is unfamiliar with the equipment, such as a syringe pump, is to seek assistance or clarification from a more experienced colleague or supervisor. It is important to ensure that patient care, particularly for a child post-surgery, is carried out safely and correctly. Engaging in a review of the equipment's operation manual, if available, or requesting a demonstration could also be beneficial. Above all, patient safety should be the LPN's primary concern, and part of providing safe care is recognizing when to ask for help.