Which client should be assigned to a new RN to ensure patient safety?

Assigning a child needing pre-operative medication to a new RN is a suitable choice to ensure patient safety for several reasons. Children often have specific needs and response patterns that differ from those of adults, particularly in the context of medication administration. A child in this situation may require careful assessment to ensure proper dosing and understanding of pre-operative protocols.

The new RN, while still developing skills and experience, can focus on the stable and routine aspect of administering pre-operative medications, which typically follows established guidelines and protocols. This task allows for a closely monitored environment where the RN can apply foundational nursing skills under supervision, minimizing the risk of complications.

Conversely, the other situations carry more complexities and potential risks. An adult with abdominal pain from a fight may have other underlying injuries or complications, necessitating more experienced care. An adolescent with sickle cell disease requesting more pain medication may present a challenging scenario involving pain management, understanding of disease pathways, and potential for crisis intervention. A child with cystic fibrosis would require specialized knowledge related to their chronic condition and its management, which may be too advanced for a new RN.

By assigning the child needing pre-operative medication, the organization prioritizes safety while allowing the new RN to gain experience in a controlled and routine situation