A nurse asks an assistive personnel (AP) to take a specimen to the laboratory, and the AP refuses. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A.
Discuss the incident with the AP.
B.
Complete an incident report.
C.
Take the specimen to the laboratory.
D.
Report the AP to the charge nurse.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Discuss the incident with the AP.
Explanation
When an assistive personnel (AP) refuses to carry out a task such as taking a specimen to the laboratory, it is important for the nurse to address the situation promptly and effectively. Here’s why discussing the incident with the AP is the most appropriate initial action:
- Clarify the Situation: Directly discussing the incident allows the nurse to understand the reasons behind the AP’s refusal. The AP may have valid concerns, such as feeling unqualified for the task, not having enough time, or there may be a misunderstanding about the task. Open communication helps identify and resolve any issues that may be causing the refusal.
- Addressing Issues: If the AP’s refusal is due to a lack of understanding or training, the nurse can provide additional guidance or clarify expectations. This ensures that the AP is aware of their responsibilities and has the necessary information to perform their duties effectively in the future.
- Maintain Professional Relationships: Handling the situation through discussion rather than immediate escalation helps maintain a positive and professional working environment. It demonstrates a willingness to understand and support colleagues rather than resorting to punitive measures.
- Follow-Up Actions: Depending on the outcome of the discussion, the nurse can determine if further actions are needed. For example, if the AP has legitimate concerns, addressing these can prevent similar issues in the future. If the refusal is due to unwillingness or negligence, the nurse might then consider more formal actions, such as involving the charge nurse or completing an incident report.
- Escalation and Reporting: While reporting the incident to the charge nurse or completing an incident report might be necessary if the issue persists or is severe, these steps are typically reserved for when initial efforts to resolve the issue directly with the AP are unsuccessful. Taking the specimen to the laboratory personally should be a last resort when no other options are viable.
In summary, discussing the incident with the AP is the most effective and appropriate initial step. It allows for direct communication, addresses any underlying issues, and fosters a supportive work environment.