Question

Ruth Marie drinks the medication and asks the nurse why it was prescribed. Which statement by the nurse would be appropriate? A. "It helps to keep your airway clear during the procedure." B. "It is used to protect your kidneys from the contrast." C. "It will help you to breathe slowly and relax." D. "It is used to keep the heart rate regular."

Short answer

Unsafe to give a conclusive answer without knowing the procedure and medication.

Step-by-step solution

- Understand the question

The question is asking to identify the most appropriate reason for prescribing the medication to Ruth Marie. There are four possible options provided.

- Evaluate each statement

Each statement provides a different reason for prescribing the medication: A. keeping the airway clear, B. protecting the kidneys from the contrast, C. helping to breathe slowly and relax, and D. keeping the heart rate regular. Review each and consider which could be most suitable given the information provided.

- Decision Making

Without further information about the procedure or the medication, it is impossible to decisively choose a single option as the most appropriate. This would typically be informed by the nature of the procedure, medical history and specific issues that Ruth Marie might have. Discuss these considerations with the class.

Key concepts

Medication Administration

In nursing, proper medication administration is crucial for patient safety and treatment efficacy. This involves understanding the medication's purpose, its effects, and how it interacts with the patient's condition. Key components include:
- **The Five Rights**: ensuring the right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time.
- **Patient History**: reviewing allergies, past responses to similar drugs, and current medications to avoid adverse interactions.
- **Monitoring**: watching for side effects and effectiveness post-administration. For instance, in Ruth Marie's scenario, the nurse must comprehend why each medication is considered, ensuring it aligns with her health needs and the procedure she's undergoing. Administering medication isn't merely about giving a pill; it's about a holistic evaluation of the patient's circumstances to ensure optimal outcomes.

Patient Communication

Effective patient communication is a cornerstone of nursing practice. It ensures that patients feel supported, informed, and involved in their care decisions. As in Ruth Marie's case, clear, empathetic communication about her medication's purpose is vital. Here are some strategies:

• **Active Listening**: Always listen to the patient's concerns and questions fully before responding.
• **Clear Explanation**: Use simple language to explain why a medication is necessary and how it will help.
• **Empathy and Respect**: Always approach communication with empathy, and respect the patient's perspective and feelings.

These skills not only bridge the knowledge gap between healthcare providers and patients but also build trust and improve adherence to treatment plans.

Clinical Reasoning

Clinical reasoning involves making informed decisions about patient care. It combines knowledge, evidence, and patient information to determine the best course of action. In any clinical scenario, such as deciding the appropriate explanation for Ruth Marie, nurses must:

• **Gather Information**: Collect data about the patient's health history, current symptoms, and treatment plan.
• **Evaluate Evidence**: Consider scientific evidence and clinical guidelines related to the patient's condition and treatment options.
• **Consider Context**: Understand the specific context, including psychosocial aspects and patient preferences.

This leads to a thoughtful and effective approach tailored to individual patient needs, fostering better health outcomes.

Nursing Assessment

Nursing assessment is the foundation of competent patient care. It involves systematically collecting patient data to understand their physical, emotional, and psychological status. Effective assessment guides treatment decisions:

• **Initial Evaluation**: Start with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient, including vital signs and symptom review.
• **Ongoing Monitoring**: Continuously assess the patient's response to treatment, adjusting care plans as needed.
• **Documentation**: Keep detailed records of assessments and observations to inform future care and communication among the healthcare team.

For Ruth Marie, a thorough nursing assessment would include understanding the specific procedure and her medical background, which informs accurate medication and care instructions. This ensures the safest and most effective patient outcomes.