Question

A nurse who is working on a surgical unit is caring for four different patients. Patient A will be discharged home and is in need of instruction about wound care.

Patients B and C have returned from the operating room within an hour of each other, and both require vital signs and monitoring of their intravenous (IV) lines. Patient D is resting following a visit by physical therapy. Which of the following activities by the nurse represent(s) use of clinical decision making for groups of patients? (Select all that apply.)
1. Consider how to involve patient A in deciding whether to involve the family caregiver in wound care instruction.
2. Think about past experience with patients who develop postoperative complications.
3. Decide which activities can be combined for patients B and C.
4. Carefully gather any assessment information and identify patient problems.

Answer 1

The nurse's use of clinical decision making for groups of patients can be seen in thinking about past experiences with complications, deciding which activities can be combined, and gathering assessment information to identify patient problems.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's use of clinical decision making for groups of patients in this scenario can be seen in options 2, 3, and 4.

1. Think about past experience with patients who develop postoperative complications: This represents the nurse drawing upon their previous knowledge and experiences to anticipate and monitor for potential complications in patients B and C.
2. Decide which activities can be combined for patients B and C: This reflects the nurse assessing the patients' needs, prioritizing tasks, and grouping activities together to optimize efficiency and patient care.
3. Carefully gather any assessment information and identify patient problems: This demonstrates the nurse's use of data collection and analysis to identify patient issues, prioritize interventions, and provide appropriate care.