When unsure how to perform a procedure described in the care plan, what should you do?

When unsure how to perform a procedure described in the care plan, what should you do?

• A. Ask one of your coworkers to apply the brace
• B. Have the resident tell you how she normally wears it
• C. Explain to the nurse that you do not understand the directives
• D. Have the nursing assistant from the previous shift apply it before she leaves

Answer: (C)

When you’re unsure how to perform a procedure described in the care plan, tell the nurse in charge that you don’t understand the directives and ask for clarification or a demonstration. The care plan is a written guide created by the healthcare team, and the nurse is responsible for interpreting and supervising the instructions. Proceeding with a task based on a coworker’s guess, the resident’s memory of how she normally wears something, or instructions from the previous shift can lead to incorrect technique and potential harm. You should wait for clear, approved guidance from the nurse before acting.

When you’re unsure how to perform a procedure described in the care plan, tell the nurse in charge that you don’t understand the directives and ask for clarification or a demonstration. The care plan is a written guide created by the healthcare team, and the nurse is responsible for interpreting and supervising the instructions. Proceeding with a task based on a coworker’s guess, the resident’s memory of how she normally wears something, or instructions from the previous shift can lead to incorrect technique and potential harm. You should wait for clear, approved guidance from the nurse before acting.