The Nurse Makes a Medication Error and a Client Dies

question 29

Multiple Choice

The nurse makes a medication error and a client dies. In court, the attorney for the family of the deceased client asks the nurse if she followed standards of care in administering the medication. How would the attorney phrase this question?

• A) "Did you follow agency guidelines as in previous circumstances?"
• B) "Did you follow the healthcare provider's orders and double-check them before administration?"
• C) "Did you do the three checks and follow the five rights as taught in school?"
• D) "Did you do what another nurse would have done under similar circumstances?"

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Definitions:

Epinephrine

A hormone and neurotransmitter also known as adrenaline that increases heart rate, muscle strength, blood pressure, and sugar metabolism.

Homeostasis

The physiological process by which living organisms maintain stability in their internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Hypothalamus

A region of the brain that regulates vital bodily functions such as temperature, hunger, thirst, and the sleep-wake cycle.

Nervous System

The complex network of nerves and cells that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord to various parts of the body.