Brian is a new nurse and has been working in the medical unit for the last 2 months. Last month, a client died because of nosocomial infection. The hospital administration and educators have been speaking to staff about reducing nosocomial infection rates and the importance of hand hygiene in that endeavour. Brian notices that Dr. Wells enters his client’s room without using hand sanitizer or washing her hands, assesses the client, and then goes to the next client. Brian is aware that this is poor hygiene and against hospital policy. Brian is concerned for his client’s safety and those of other clients and wonders how best to address the problem. Brian is worried that because he is new that he may not be the best person to address the issue. He feels certain that since this is a big problem, others must be watching and they will speak to the doctor, so he chooses to say nothing.
1. What are possible actions that Brian could have taken instead of
Silence? Where is your answer?
2. What could the possible outcomes be of each action? Where is your answer?
3. If Brian’s client develops an infection as a result of poor hand
washing practices, will Brian be held responsible since he was
aware of the problem and did nothing? Where is your answer?
4. What are Brian’s ethical and legal responsibilities as a nurse? Where is your answer?
