Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

When caring for a confused elderly patient with a suspected UTI, what should the CNL instruct the RN to do?

1. Recheck the vital signs in 15 minutes to ensure BP is rising

2. Call the patient's family to obtain a full medication history

3. Ask the RN to call the MD and notify him of the need for evaluation

4. Give the patient a PRN dose of Ativan to help with confusion

The correct answer is: Ask the RN to call the MD and notify him of the need for evaluation

Instructing the RN to call the MD and notify them of the need for evaluation is essential in this scenario. If a confused elderly patient is suspected of having a urinary tract infection (UTI), it is important to ensure that the cause of the confusion is addressed promptly. UTIs can lead to changes in mental status, especially in older adults, and may require medical evaluation and intervention. By communicating with the physician, the RN can facilitate further assessment, which could include performing diagnostic tests, starting appropriate treatment, or considering other underlying conditions that may be contributing to the patient's confusion. This approach prioritizes the patient’s health and safety by ensuring they receive timely medical attention. The other options may not be as immediately beneficial in addressing the critical need for evaluation. For example, simply rechecking vital signs may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition, while obtaining a medication history can be important but isn't as urgent as arranging for medical evaluation. Administering Ativan may introduce further complications and isn't a recommended response in most situations of confusion without physician orders, especially when considering potential side effects or contraindications.