Question

Select all that apply: Select the behaviors that nurses can employ to avoid negligence: A. Follow the standard of care. B. Give competent care. C. Follow the family’s wishes. D. Do not get too close to patients. E. Develop a caring rapport. F. Document only what someone tells you. G. Document fully.

Short answer

The behaviors that nurses can employ to avoid negligence include: Follow the standard of care (A), Give competent care (B), Develop a caring rapport (E), and Document fully (G).

Step-by-step solution

Identify Professional Standards

Identify the options that speak to practices based on professional nursing standards. A professional behavior for a nurse generally refers to the application of relevant competencies, adhering to professional regulatory guidelines, and prioritizing patient rights and safety. Following this criteria, options A, B, and G qualify as they refer to providing competent care, adhering to the standard care procedure, and thoroughly documenting care, respectively.

Distinguish Empathetic Practices

Distinguish the options that suggest empathetic and caring rapport with patients, but still maintain professional boundaries. A caring rapport helps in building trust with patients, and it's an essential part of the nurse-patient relationship. In this case, option E involves building a caring rapport with patients.

Reject Unprofessional Actions

Dismiss options that involve unprofessional actions or depict a lack of patient regard. These practices don't support the professional performance expected of a nurse. Here, options C, D, and F can be dismissed, as they suggest following family wishes (rather than medical guidance), not getting too close to patients, and documenting only per others' say which is not accurate record-keeping.

Key concepts

Professional Nursing Standards

The cornerstone of nursing practice is adherence to professional nursing standards. These standards serve as a framework to ensure that nurses deliver quality and safe care. They guide nurses in making informed decisions that respect patient rights and prioritize health outcomes.

Key aspects of these standards include:

• Application of relevant competencies: Nurses must possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide effective care.
• Adherence to regulatory guidelines: Following protocols and procedures is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the profession.
• Prioritization of patient rights and safety: Every action taken should enhance patient well-being and security.

By upholding these standards, nurses contribute to a culture of excellence and trust within the healthcare system.

Patient Safety

Ensuring patient safety is a fundamental responsibility of every nurse. Patient safety involves protecting patients from harm and minimizing risks associated with healthcare procedures. It requires vigilance and a proactive approach to care.

Considerations for patient safety include:

• Identifying potential hazards in the care environment.
• Implementing preventative measures to avoid errors and accidents.
• Consistently reviewing procedures and practices to improve safety protocols.

When nurses focus on patient safety, they create an environment where patients feel secure and supported.

Competent Care

Competent care is a reflection of a nurse's ability to apply their knowledge and skills effectively. It ensures that each patient receives appropriate, evidence-based interventions. Competency in nursing is not just about technical skills but also involves critical thinking and decision-making abilities.

Elements of competent care include:

• Utilizing best practices and current research to inform care decisions.
• Tailoring interventions to meet individual patient needs.
• Monitoring patient responses and adjusting care plans as necessary.

By providing competent care, nurses ensure optimal health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Empathetic Practices

Empathy in nursing is essential for building trust and rapport with patients. Empathetic practices involve understanding and sharing the feelings of patients, which enhances the therapeutic relationship. However, it's important to maintain professional boundaries while expressing empathy.

Strategies for empathetic practices include:

• Active listening: Paying full attention to what the patient is saying without interrupting.
• Validating emotions: Acknowledging and accepting the patient's feelings.
• Providing emotional support: Being present and supportive during difficult times.

Through empathetic practices, nurses provide not just physical care but also emotional and psychological support, fostering a holistic approach to health care.