When asked to perform a procedure that the nurse has never done before, what should the nurse do to legally protect himself or herself?

• A. Go ahead and do it
• B. Refuse to perform it, citing lack of knowledge
• C. Discuss it with the charge nurse, asking for direction
• D. Ask another nurse who has performed the procedure

Answer: (C)

When a nurse is asked to perform a procedure they have never done, the priority is to ensure patient safety and stay within professional scope by obtaining proper guidance from a supervisor. Discussing the request with the charge nurse allows the nurse to receive direction about whether the task is appropriate, whether additional training or supervision is required, and who should perform or oversee the procedure. This protects the nurse legally by showing proactive reliance on authority, clarifies accountability, and helps ensure the patient receives care under competent supervision.

Going ahead without guidance can expose both patient and nurse to risk and potential liability. Simply refusing because of lack of knowledge may leave the patient without needed care, and asking another nurse who has performed the procedure may not provide official authorization or supervision. The best course is to seek direction from the charge nurse to determine the appropriate, supervised path forward.