Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 67%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
A nurse is caring for a newborn immediately following birth who has a prescription for erythromycin ophthalmic ointment. The guardian refuses the medication.Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Document the guardian's refusal of the medication. This is the appropriate action because it ensures accurate and complete documentation of the refusal, which is essential for legal and ethical reasons. Reporting to social services (A) may not be necessary unless there are concerns for the child's safety. Informing the guardian about giving the medication after discharge (C) may not be appropriate as immediate treatment may be necessary. Notifying the ethics committee (D) is premature without documenting the refusal first.