You have a patient with a strong family history of breast cancer. As a matter of the patient's request, you perform a BRCA genetic test to see if there is an increased risk for breast cancer. The patient's employer is requesting a copy of any genetic testing that may have been done. What should you do?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Refuse to provide the information to the employer. This is because genetic information, especially related to predisposition to diseases like breast cancer, is highly sensitive and protected under privacy laws such as HIPAA. Disclosing this information to the employer without the patient's consent would be a violation of the patient's privacy rights. Option A is incorrect because, as mentioned above, sharing genetic information with the employer without the patient's consent is a violation of privacy laws. Option B is not the best course of action because involving a hospital lawyer may not be necessary at this stage and may escalate the situation unnecessarily. Option C, bringing the request to the ethics committee, is not the first step in this scenario. The appropriate action is to respect the patient's confidentiality and privacy rights by refusing to provide the information to the employer. In an educational context, it is important for healthcare professionals to understand and uphold patient confidentiality and privacy rights. This case demonstrates the need to prioritize the patient's autonomy and right to control their own medical information, especially when it comes to sensitive genetic data. It also highlights the legal and ethical considerations that healthcare providers must navigate when handling patient information in accordance with professional standards and regulations.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of medication administration in nursing practice, the correct answer is D) not give the medication when another authorized direct care staff member asks you to administer a medication they have prepared. This is in line with best practices for patient safety and medication error prevention. The rationale behind this correct answer is rooted in the principles of medication safety protocols. It is crucial for the administering staff member to have full accountability and responsibility for the medication they are administering. By not giving the medication that someone else has prepared, the risk of errors such as administering the wrong medication, the wrong dose, or to the wrong patient is significantly reduced. Option A, giving the medication, is incorrect because it compromises the accountability and verification process that ensures medication safety. Option B, asking the nurse to give the medication, is not the most appropriate step as the nurse may not have been involved in the preparation process and may not have the necessary information to safely administer the medication. Option C, asking what the medication is, is a good initial step but does not address the broader issue of accountability and responsibility for medication administration. In an educational context, it is essential to emphasize the importance of the "Five Rights" of medication administration: right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, and right time. By following these principles and ensuring that each staff member takes full responsibility for the medications they administer, the likelihood of medication errors is minimized, and patient safety is prioritized. This scenario highlights the critical need for diligence, accountability, and adherence to protocols in medication administration practices.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) have the nurse assess the individual. This is the appropriate action because nursing staff should not make decisions to stop, continue, or change prescribed medications without consulting a healthcare provider. Choosing option A) to stop the treatment is incorrect because only a healthcare provider can discontinue a medication after assessing the individual's condition. Opting for C) to continue applying the ointment without further evaluation could lead to unnecessary medication administration, potentially causing harm or wasting resources. Option D) suggesting changing the medication to a cream is also incorrect as this decision should be made by a healthcare provider based on a thorough assessment of the individual's current condition and needs. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of following proper protocols and not making autonomous decisions regarding medication administration. It emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to continuously assess, communicate, and collaborate to ensure safe and effective patient care. Nurses play a crucial role in medication administration, but they must always work within their scope of practice and seek guidance from prescribers when necessary.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Match the required information on the medication container against the MAR and then call the nurse for direction before administering the medication. This is the appropriate course of action because medication errors can have serious consequences for patients. By verifying the medication against the Medication Administration Record (MAR) and consulting the nurse, you are ensuring that the right medication is being given to the right individual at the right time. Option B) Look up the medication on the provided medication information sheets or book may not be the best choice in this scenario as it could waste valuable time and delay the administration of the medication. It is crucial to consult with the nurse immediately for guidance when there is any discrepancy in the medication's appearance. Option C) Give the medication and make a note of the difference in size, shape, or color for the nurse to review later is not recommended as administering medication with discrepancies without clarification could potentially harm the individual. It is essential to confirm the medication's identity before administration. Option D) Talk to one of the other authorized direct care staff to see if the medication is the right one is not the appropriate action as medication administration responsibilities should not be delegated to other staff members without proper verification and consultation with the nurse. In an educational context, it is vital to emphasize the significance of double-checking medications before administration, especially when there are discrepancies in appearance. This practice helps to prevent medication errors and ensures patient safety. Nurses and healthcare professionals must always prioritize patient well-being by following proper medication administration protocols and seeking guidance when in doubt.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of medication administration for diabetes mellitus, the correct answer is A) Glipizide (Glucotrol). Glipizide belongs to a class of medications called sulfonylureas and works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin, thereby lowering blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Option B) Baclofen is a muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasticity and is not indicated for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Option C) Cortisone is a corticosteroid medication primarily used for its anti-inflammatory properties and is not used to manage diabetes. Option D) Sertraline (Zoloft) is an antidepressant medication and is not indicated for the treatment of diabetes or for lowering blood sugar levels. Educationally, understanding the correct oral hypoglycemic medications is crucial for nursing students to ensure safe and effective medication administration in patients with diabetes mellitus. Knowing the mechanism of action and indications of each medication is essential to provide quality patient care and prevent medication errors. By linking the pharmacological knowledge with patient outcomes, nurses can optimize therapeutic effects and minimize potential adverse effects, promoting positive health outcomes for individuals with diabetes.