The nurse is teaching a leadership and management course and is discussing client referrals.
Which of the following statements best describes the purpose of referrals?
The nurse is teaching a leadership and management course and is discussing client referrals.
Which of the following statements best describes the purpose of referrals?
A. "Allows the nurse to demonstrate their leadership abilities."
[10%]
B. "Care is appropriately routed to an individual or discipline."
[71%]
C. "Ensures that care is unilateral and cost-effective."
[9%]
D. "Focuses on empowering the client's decision making."
[10%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Leadership & Management
Lesson
Management Concepts
Client Need
Test Plan
Management of Care
Related Topic
Referrals
Item Type
Item Type
Knowledge/Comprehension
Explanation
Choice B is correct. The primary purpose of referrals is to ensure the completeness and appropriateness of the client's care. A registered nurse completes a referral to ensure that an appropriate individual or discipline meets the client's needs. For example, a client with a pressure ulcer or new ostomy is referred by the registered nurse to a wound/ostomy nurse for specialized treatment and counseling.
Choice A is incorrect. While making referrals is a professional responsibility, its primary purpose is not to showcase a nurse's leadership skills but to ensure clients receive specialized care.
Choice C is incorrect. Referrals aim to provide appropriate client care rather than focusing primarily on unilateral care. While cost-effectiveness may be a consideration, referrals are intended to ensure the client’s needs are met through the correct provider, not to prioritize cost above all else. Care should be comprehensive and client-centered, not unilateral.
Choice D is incorrect. Although empowering clients is important, referrals are made to ensure clients receive specialized care from the correct provider. The purpose of referrals is more about routing care than directly empowering decision-making.
Learning Objective
Identify the primary purpose of referrals.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
Referrals
15.2 Care Coordination & Communication
Additional Info
✓ The nurse makes referrals to ensure that clients receive appropriate and specialized care from the most qualified healthcare professionals or services.
✓ Referrals help direct the client to the right provider based on their specific needs, whether for medical, therapeutic, or support services.
✓ This process ensures that the client’s health concerns are addressed promptly, effectively, and holistically, promoting optimal outcomes and continuity of care.
✓ Referrals also enhance the interdisciplinary collaboration necessary to deliver comprehensive care.
