Chapter 28, Problem 2RP

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

Would it have been appropriate for the nursing student to change the name on the label? Why or why not?

Case summary:

During the clinical rotation, the nurse met person FB who was an elderly man with a wound infection. He requires an intravenous antibiotic therapy. He was due for a certain antibiotic which has to be hung at 1000. When the nurse checked his drawer at 0800 and 0900, the antibiotic was not there. Another nurse told not to call pharmacy since the pharmacy staffs will replace the medication carts before the time. At 1000, the nurse found the medication bag in the drawer. It was found to be the right drug and the right dose, but it was the wrong patient. The label on the bag had another patient’s name on it. This patient was also in the same unit who is receiving the same drug and same dose but at a different time.

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

How did the nursing student’s actions adhere to legal and ethical principles?

Case summary:

During the clinical rotation, the nurse met person FB who was an elderly man with a wound infection. He requires an intravenous antibiotic therapy. He was due for a certain antibiotic which has to be hung at 1000. When the nurse checked his drawer at 0800 and 0900, the antibiotic was not there. Another nurse told not to call pharmacy since the pharmacy staffs will replace the medication carts before the time. At 1000, the nurse found the medication bag in the drawer. It was found to be the right drug and the right dose, but it was the wrong patient. The label on the bag had another patient’s name on it. This patient was also in the same unit who is receiving the same drug and same dose but at a different time.

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

Did the nursing student act as an advocate for person FB?

Case summary:

During the clinical rotation, the nurse met person FB who was an elderly man with a wound infection. He requires an intravenous antibiotic therapy. He was due for a certain antibiotic which has to be hung at 1000. When the nurse checked his drawer at 0800 and 0900, the antibiotic was not there. Another nurse told not to call pharmacy since the pharmacy staffs will replace the medication carts before the time. At 1000, the nurse found the medication bag in the drawer. It was found to be the right drug and the right dose, but it was the wrong patient. The label on the bag had another patient’s name on it. This patient was also in the same unit who is receiving the same drug and same dose but at a different time.