A male nursing student is assigned to change the abdominal dressing of

A male nursing student is assigned to change the abdominal dressing of a 74-year-old female. The clinical nursing instructor asks that a female nurse assist him with the procedure. The primary reason for this decision is:

1. It diverts the client’s attention during the assessment and procedure
2. It provides a third party to ensure proper conduct of all involved
3. It facilitates a comfortable, efficient environment for the client
4. It assists with the wound assessment and changing of the abdominal dressing

ANSWER

ANS: 2
When the client and nurse are of opposite gender, it helps to have a third person of the client’s gender in the room. The presence of a third person ensures the client that the examiner will be-have ethically. This person is also a witness to the examiner’s conduct as well as the client’s. While a second health care provider may be useful during the assessment and procedure, that is not the primary reason for their presence.