Instructions
Scenario
Nurse Lope is starting a busy shift in which she was finishing report on Mr. Johnson. During report, Nurse Jim, who was finishing his shift, also gave Nurse Lope a medicine cup containing three of Mr. Johnson’s unopened medications that he reported were recently retrieved from the medication dispenser. Nurse Lope was told that these were supposed to have been given 30 minutes ago and asked if she could give them during bedside hand-off. Because Nurse Lope planned to stay in Mr. Johnson’s room to complete his vital signs and assessment, she agreed with this plan.
Upon checking the electronic medical record, Nurse Lope found the medications were actually scheduled three hours prior, and one item failed to scan. Proceeding with administration to stay on schedule for the next round, she later discovered the unscanned medication belonged to a different patient.
Discussion Question
Outline the concept of professional accountability as it pertains to nursing. Examine the actions of Nurse Jim and Nurse Lope. Discuss how you would approach this scenario if you were in Jim’s and Lope’s positions. Based on your analysis of how nurses demonstrate accountability in clinical practice, the nursing process, and evidence-based practice, explain how you would handle this situation if you were the nurse manager overseeing Jim and Lope.
Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and cite at least two references using APA style. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100–150 words and cite one reference.
Answer
The concept of professional accountability means taking full responsibility for one’s actions, decisions, and outcomes while promoting safe, ethical, and patient-centered care. It involves being honest, competent, and respectful of policies that protect patients. According to Cusack et al. (2023), nurses have a duty to provide quality care that promotes safety and dignity while meeting professional standards. From the scenario, both nurse Jim and Lope failed to act responsibly. Jim handed over medications without verifying the correct time and confirming the right patient, while Lope administered them without … To access full instructions, click on the purchase button below.