Question

A nurse is writing an initial plan of care for a client with a rare condition. The nurse has little experience with the condition. What action by the nurse will result in the best plan of care?

Answer 1

To create the best plan of care for a client with a rare condition, a nurse should collaborate with specialist doctors, conduct research, review literature, and involve the patient in the planning process, adjusting as necessary based on the patient’s response and new information.

Step-by-step explanation:

To develop the best plan of care for a client with a rare condition, a nurse with little experience should take a collaborative approach. This includes conducting comprehensive research about the condition, consulting with healthcare professionals who have expertise in the area, such as specialist doctors, and possibly reaching out to multidisciplinary teams for a more rounded view of the patient's situation.

The nurse should also review existing literature and treatment protocols, and consider evidence-based practices. It is essential to involve the patient and their family in the care planning process, ensuring that their preferences and needs are addressed. As the plan of care evolves, the nurse should remain open to adjusting the plan based on the patient's response to treatment and any new information that comes to light.

Finally, utilizing clinical tools such as checklists that other professionals, like surgeons and anesthesia professionals, use can help ensure no vital aspects of care are overlooked. The relationship between doctors and nurses indicates a collaboration where both parties bring critical skills to patient care. Doctors typically hold more formal authority, but nurses are essential in implementing care plans and monitoring patient progress. Understanding this dynamic helps balance input and maintain a focus on patient-centered care.