Question

The charge nurse observes a new nurse preparing to insert an intravenous (IV) catheter. The new nurse has gathered supplies, including intravenous catheters, an intravenous insertion kit, and a 4x4 sterile gauze dressing to cover and secure the insertion site. What action should the charge nurse take?

Answer 1

The charge nurse should intervene and provide direct supervision, ensuring the new nurse follows a standardized IV insertion checklist and maintains sterile technique to prevent infection and improve patient safety.

Step-by-step explanation:

The charge nurse observing the new nurse should intervene to ensure that the protocol for inserting an intravenous (IV) catheter includes the use of an IV insertion checklist. This checklist could include confirming the patient's identity, procedure, site, and anticipated critical events such as blood loss or duration of the operation. Additionally, the protocol may involve reviewing the sterility of the equipment and addressing any equipment issues. It is essential that the charge nurse ensure the new nurse follows a standardized protocol, as developed by Dr. Pronovost, which has been demonstrated to reduce infection rates and improve patient outcomes.

Moreover, the charge nurse should provide direct supervision to the new nurse, mentoring them through the IV insertion process, and even encouraging the new nurse to vocalize each step of the procedure to enhance adherence to the protocol. It is critical that sterile technique is maintained throughout the procedure and that sterile gauze or a transparent dressing is used to secure the insertion site post-insertion, not the non-sterile 4x4 gauze that was gathered. Such interventions and supervision align with the principles of safe patient care and the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections.