Fundamentals of Nursing Q 101
When calling the nurse consultant about a difficult client-centered problem, the primary nurse is sure to report the following:
A. Length of time the current treatment has been in place.
B. The spouse’s reaction to the client’s dressing change.
C. Client’s concern about the current treatment.
D. Physician’s reluctance to change the current treatment plan.
Correct Answer: A. Length of time the current treatment has been in place.
This gives the consulting nurse facts that will influence a new plan. Other choices are subjective and emotional issues and conclusions about the current treatment plan may cause bias in the decision of a new treatment plan by the nurse consultant. In general, it is important to create a supportive environment with open and honest communication, focusing on the achievements and not on negative aspects.
Option B: Navigating the new system is very challenging and it is important for the clients to have a person to whom they could always turn with questions and concerns. It could not necessarily be a formal caseworker, but rather any clinician who had a trusting relationship and was helpful and willing to guide the client.
Option C: Education and information for both the patient and the family were mentioned by all the participants in a study as the main strategies to help them develop a clear understanding of their condition and prognosis.
Option D: Several successful strategies to improve client-centered care have been introduced in different hospitals: writing a family note (a summary that is given to the family) at the family meeting, appointing a contact person/therapy leader for each client, improving continuity and coordination of care through interdisciplinary collaborations, having the same staff working with the client, and providing written materials.