Sample Solution

In the Mississippi case, the nurse appropriately followed protocol in identifying and addressing a potential safety issue. The nurse identified that a patient was not adequately hydrated, as evidenced by his “low urine output.” After assessing the patient and recognizing signs of dehydration, the nurse then notified the physician (who ordered additional IV fluids) and provided nursing interventions to ensure proper hydration through monitoring and documenting intake/output ratios. This intervention was in accordance with accepted standards of practice for nurses (Kozier & Erb, 2017).

In contrast, the Texas nurse engaged in inappropriate medical practices thus resulting in disciplinary action from the Board of Nursing. Specifically, this nurse prescribed medication without authorization from a provider which is considered an act outside their scope of practice (American Nurses Association [ANA], 2015). Not only did this action violate professional standards but it also put patients at risk by potentially leading to incorrect or unsafe medication administration practices.

Both cases demonstrate how nurses must adhere to recognized standards of practice for providing safe care for their patients. In order to properly protect those under their care, nurses must follow established protocols regarding diagnosis, communication with other healthcare providers, management of medications and implementation of necessary interventions (Bryant & Bailey 2019). Doing so ensures that proper procedures are being followed when caring for any patient regardless if they are located within Mississippi or Texas.