Treating the monitor instead of the client
NCLEX-RN glossary · Physiological Adaptation
Definition
The nursing error of relying solely on automated equipment data without validating it against a physical assessment of the client.
Treating the monitor instead of the client in plain English
Equipment failure or artifacts can lead to inappropriate interventions if the nurse does not first confirm that the client matches the monitor's display. The main trap is calling a code for a flatline on the monitor without first checking the client's pulse and breathing to ensure the lead didn't just fall off.
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