Question

The registered nurse arrives at work and is told to report (float) to the intensive care unit(ICU) for the day because the ICU is understaffed and needs additional nurses to take care of the clients. The nurse has never worked in the ICU. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing action?

a. Refuse to float to the ICU.

b. Call the hospital lawyer.

c. Call the nursing supervisor.

d. Report to the ICU and identify tasks that can be performed safely.

Answer 1

Answer

The answer is option D- Report to the ICU and identifies tasks that can be performed safely.

Option D is correct because floating means moving from one unit to another. Nurses should move from their unit to another unit because of the staffing needs and floating is an acceptable practice used in hospitals. The nurse cannot refuse floating. So the best option is to report to the ICU and assigned to care for stable patients or those with conditions similar to her training experience to ensure safety.