A clinic nurse is examining an older, confused patient on an examination table and realizes a piece of needed equipment was left outside in the hall. What action by the nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For patient safety, some patients should never be left alone on an examination table: infants; small children; older adults who are confused, combative, or uncooperative, and people who are physically or chemically restrained. The nurse calls for another staff member to get the missing equipment. Getting up and down off the table is inconvenient and may be difficult. Finishing the exam and then retrieving the piece of equipment also involves the patient changing locations and is inconvenient for the patient.

A Clinic Nurse Is Examining an Older, Confused Patient on an Examination