The nurse is directed to take an unsafe patient assignment.What is the most appropriate first action of the nurse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If a nurse is assigned to care for more patients than is reasonable for safe care,the appropriate first action is to contact the nursing supervisor.If the nurse is required to accept the assignment,he or she must document this information in writing and provide the document to nursing administrators.Although documentation does not relieve a nurse of responsibility if patients suffer harm because of inattention,it shows that the nurse attempted to act appropriately.Refusing to care for the patients without appropriate help and leaving could be regarded as abandonment.Complaining to the administrator is not the first step,nor is calling the Board of Nursing.

The Nurse Is Directed to Take an Unsafe Patient Assignment