The nurse manager becomes aware of frequent incorrect narcotics counts on the night shift. This is verified by the pharmacy. What should be the first action taken by the manager?
A) Call a meeting of all night shift employees.
B) Review the staffing pattern and absentee list for the night shift.
C) Ask employees for their perceptions on missing narcotics.
D) Request that security search employee lockers and personal items.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. A staff meeting may be warranted at some point, but is not the first action.
2. The first step is to assess the problem. By checking the staffing pattern on the nights in question, the manager can rule out some employees.
3. Asking for staff perceptions about the missing drugs might be warranted, but it is not the first step in assessment.
4. Legal issues should be considered before planning to search employee lockers.

The Nurse Manager Becomes Aware of Frequent Incorrect Narcotics Counts