A nurse in an acute care facility is preparing to transfer a client to a long-term care facility. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the hand-off report?
A.
Time of the client’s last bath
B.
Effectiveness of the last dose of pain medication
C.
Number of family members who have visited
D.
Frequency of previous vital sign measurement
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Effectiveness of the last dose of pain medication.
Explanation:
When a nurse in an acute care facility prepares to transfer a client to a long-term care facility, it is essential to provide a comprehensive and relevant hand-off report. The hand-off report ensures continuity of care by communicating critical information about the client’s current condition, treatment, and any recent changes. This communication is vital for patient safety and quality care in the new facility.
Option A: Time of the Client’s Last Bath
While personal hygiene is important, the exact timing of the client’s last bath is not typically crucial information for a hand-off report. Bathing schedules can vary between facilities, and the receiving care team can determine when the client’s next bath should occur. Therefore, this information does not impact immediate or ongoing care in a significant way.
Option B: Effectiveness of the Last Dose of Pain Medication
This is the correct information to include in the hand-off report. Pain management is a critical aspect of patient care, particularly in a long-term care setting where the client may have chronic or ongoing pain issues. Information about the effectiveness of the last dose of pain medication helps the receiving healthcare team understand how well the client’s pain is being controlled and whether adjustments to the pain management plan might be needed. It provides insight into the client’s comfort level and response to the medication, which is essential for planning future care.
Option C: Number of Family Members Who Have Visited
The number of family members who have visited the client is not clinically relevant information for a hand-off report. While family involvement can be important, it does not directly affect the immediate clinical management or care plan for the client.
Option D: Frequency of Previous Vital Sign Measurement
While the frequency of vital sign measurement may be relevant during acute care, what matters more in the hand-off report is the trend and stability of the client’s vital signs, rather than the exact frequency of measurements. The receiving facility will have its own protocol for monitoring vital signs.
Conclusion:
The hand-off report should focus on providing information that impacts the client’s ongoing care and treatment plan. The effectiveness of the last dose of pain medication (Option B) is directly relevant to the client’s comfort and ongoing pain management, making it critical for ensuring continuity of care as the client transitions to a long-term care facility.