NCLEX-RNManagement of CareHard
A nurse accepts an assignment at the start of the shift, then midway through the shift leaves the unit without notifying the charge nurse or giving report to another nurse, due to a personal emergency. Which term best describes this nurse's action?
- AClient abandonment
- BScope of practice violation
- CBreach of confidentiality
- DDelegation error
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Client abandonment
Client abandonment occurs when a nurse who has accepted an assignment terminates the nurse-client relationship without giving proper notice or ensuring continuity of care. Leaving the unit without notifying anyone or transferring responsibility meets this definition, regardless of the reason for leaving.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Scope of practice violations involve performing tasks outside one's legal role, not leaving the unit.
- C. Breach of confidentiality involves improper disclosure of client information, unrelated to this scenario.
- D. Delegation error refers to improperly assigning tasks, not leaving a unit.
Client Abandonment
Abandonment occurs when a nurse who has accepted responsibility for client care leaves the assignment without properly notifying a supervisor or transferring care to another qualified provider.
- Once an assignment is accepted, a duty of care exists
- Even personal emergencies require proper notification/handoff
- Abandonment can result in disciplinary action against the nurse's license
Memory trick: Never walk out without a handoff — that's abandonment.