Question

The nurse has just arrived in the unit for her shift at the healthcare facility. There are two new clients admitted to the unit. What should the nurse do first to collect the first set of information about the clients assigned to his or her care?

A) Administer medications to the new clients.
B) Introduce themselves to the clients.
C) Review the clients' medical records.
D) Perform a physical assessment of the clients.

Answer 1

The nurse's first step is to review the client's medical records to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of the patient's medical history and special instructions for their care. (option C is the correct answer)

Step-by-step explanation:

At the beginning of a shift, a nurse should prioritize gathering essential information about the new clients admitted to his or her care. The first step the nurse should take is to review the client's medical records. This review will provide a comprehensive overview of each client's medical history, allergies, current medication, previous treatments, and any special instructions that may be relevant to their care.

Understanding the medical background is crucial before administering medications, performing a physical assessment, or any direct interaction with clients. This action aligns with proper healthcare protocols such as confirming patient information before procedures and ensuring that all aspects regarding the patient's care are accurately communicated and understood by the healthcare team.