During an assessment of a patient with suspected appendicitis, which action by unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) indicates a need for further training?

During an assessment of a patient with suspected appendicitis, which action by unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) indicates a need for further training?

• A. The UAP offers the patient ice chips
• B. The UAP administers pain medication
• C. The UAP offers the patient a ginger ale
• D. The UAP takes the patient's vital signs

Answer: (C)

The action that indicates a need for further training is when the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) offers the patient a ginger ale. In cases of suspected appendicitis, there are specific dietary and care protocols that should be followed to prevent complications. These often include restrictions on oral intake because if surgery is required, patients need to have an empty stomach. Offering a carbonated beverage like ginger ale may introduce unnecessary risks, such as increasing the likelihood of nausea or complications that could arise from consuming solid or liquid foods when a surgical intervention is a possibility. Therefore, it's essential for UAPs to understand the protocols concerning dietary restrictions in a patient with suspected appendicitis and ensure that they do not offer food or drink without proper guidance from a licensed healthcare provider.

The action that indicates a need for further training is when the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) offers the patient a ginger ale. In cases of suspected appendicitis, there are specific dietary and care protocols that should be followed to prevent complications. These often include restrictions on oral intake because if surgery is required, patients need to have an empty stomach.

Offering a carbonated beverage like ginger ale may introduce unnecessary risks, such as increasing the likelihood of nausea or complications that could arise from consuming solid or liquid foods when a surgical intervention is a possibility. Therefore, it's essential for UAPs to understand the protocols concerning dietary restrictions in a patient with suspected appendicitis and ensure that they do not offer food or drink without proper guidance from a licensed healthcare provider.