Chapter 26, Problem 4RP

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

What evidence in nursing literature provides guidance for decision making regarding care of this patient?

Case summary:

The nursing student was assigned to follow a nurse in labor and delivery. They met Ms. B, who was expecting her first child. On entering the patient’s room, they found that the room was dark and extremely cluttered with candy wrappers, food, and trash overflowing onto the floor. The patient’s partner was found to be sleeping in the room. After leaving the room, the nurse told the nursing student that this couple had a history of drug use. The nurse also told that they had to get a urine sample from the patient to do a dipstick test and drug screening. The patient was not going to be informed about this. The nursing student was shocked and confused by this action.