The nurse manager suspects a nurse working on night shift of mishandli

QUESTION

The nurse manager suspects a nurse working on night shift of mishandling narcotics by diverting medications prescribed for client’s pain.

Which action if undertaken first will indicate that the nurse manager needs further instruction in the appropriate steps to take when faced with ethical concerns?
1. The nurse in question is confronted.
2. The rights of all involved are considered.
3. The client is medicated for pain as necessary.
4. The nurse in question is investigated.

ANSWER:

Answer: 1

Rationale: The nurse manager would not confront the nurse in question initially. The nurse manager would need to gather information to determine the validity of the complaints. The patient’s pain management is of the highest priority, and will need to be reviewed by the nurse manager. The nurse manager would also further investigate the suspected nurse. Only then might the nurse manager confront the nurse.