When there are abnormal findings during observation, what should you do?

• A. Document abnormal findings and wait to report them at the end of shift.
• B. Ignore abnormalities unless the patient complains.
• C. Document abnormal findings promptly and report them to the appropriate person.
• D. Erase the observation to avoid alarm.

Answer: (C)

Noticing abnormal findings signals a potential change in the patient’s condition. The right move is to document what you observed clearly and promptly report it to the appropriate person so they can assess and intervene quickly. This prioritizes patient safety and allows timely care or escalation.

Delaying reporting until the end of a shift can miss important changes. Merely documenting without communicating leaves others unaware of a potential problem. Erasing the observation removes accountability and could hide a developing issue. Ignoring abnormalities until the patient complains delays care and is unsafe.