The practical nurse (PN) is observing a newly hired PN who is preparing to administer a liquid medication via a client’s feeding tube system as seen in the picture. What action should the PN take?
A Demonstrate how to administer medication via a feeding tube.
B Confirm that the medication is only administered once daily
C Determine if the medication is compatible with the solution.
D Offer to assist in calculating the rate of flow for the mixture.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct action for the practical nurse (PN) to take is:
A. Demonstrate how to administer medication via a feeding tube.
Explanation
When observing a newly hired PN who is preparing to administer medication via a feeding tube, it is crucial to ensure that the new PN is competent in the correct procedures for medication administration through this route. Demonstrating the process helps to ensure that the new PN is following the appropriate protocols, thus minimizing the risk of errors and ensuring patient safety.
Here’s why the other options are less appropriate:
- B. Confirm that the medication is only administered once daily: While it is important to verify medication administration schedules, this does not directly address the procedural skills required for administering medication through a feeding tube. This step is more about checking the medication orders rather than demonstrating competency in the technique.
- C. Determine if the medication is compatible with the solution: Compatibility is an essential consideration, but it pertains to medication safety and not the demonstration of the practical skills involved in administration. This task would typically be addressed before administration, perhaps by reviewing medication guidelines or consulting with a pharmacist.
- D. Offer to assist in calculating the rate of flow for the mixture: Calculating the rate of flow is a specific technical task related to certain types of medications, particularly those administered via infusion. However, the fundamental task here is to ensure proper technique in administering medication through a feeding tube, not just the calculation of flow rates.
By demonstrating the correct procedure, the observer ensures that the new PN can administer medications safely and effectively. This includes verifying proper techniques, such as verifying tube placement, flushing the tube before and after medication administration, and ensuring the medication is delivered correctly. Proper training and demonstration in these areas are essential for maintaining high standards of patient care and safety.