The registered nurse (RN) delegates to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) the ambulation of a client. The RN observes the UAP placing the client's Foley bag on the IV pole at the level of the client's chest during the ambulation down the length of the hallway. What action should the RN take initially?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Foley bag is too high and needs to be lowered. When observing a provider making an error, the RN should immediately intervene to stop any potential harm to the client. It is important to timely correct a staff member who is making a mistake to help ensure that the error is not repeated. Correction of staff should always be done privately, not in front of the client. (Option A) Future inservice education is not a timely solution to this immediate need. It is appropriate to carry out teaching first rather than initiate disciplinary actions. According to the Federal Drug Administration's (FDA's) mandate, as no serious harm was caused, the incident does not need to be reported. (Option B) The most important issue needing intervention is the improper positioning (too high) of the Foley catheter bag. Positive reinforcement for appropriate actions can also be included (and is beneficial), but the error should first be corrected to prevent harm. (Option D) It is important to attend to the error right away to help ensure that the UAP does not repeat it. Letting this UAP complete assigned tasks first does not immediately deal with the incorrect position of the Foley bag and may not effectively teach (aid retention of) the correct positioning to the UAP. Educational objective: When observing a provider making an error, correct it immediately to stop any potential harm to the client. Correct the provider privately and as soon as possible.

The Registered Nurse (RN) Delegates to the Unlicensed Assistive Personnel