What is an appropriate response if patients' needs exceed a nurse's capacity to address them?

When the needs of patients exceed a nurse's capacity to address them, effectively communicating with colleagues to share responsibilities is an appropriate response. This approach fosters teamwork and ensures that patients receive timely care. By collaborating with other healthcare professionals, nurses can manage the workload more efficiently, distribute tasks based on individual strengths, and ensure that critical patient needs are met without compromising the quality of care.

This collaboration can involve delegating certain tasks or requesting assistance for specific patients, which can enhance efficiency and improve the overall patient experience. Teamwork is essential in healthcare settings, especially during times of high demand or staff shortages, as it allows for a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

In contrast, the other choices may not effectively address the situation. Ignoring demanding patients risks neglecting critical needs and could lead to patient dissatisfaction or harm. Asking patients to wait can contribute to increased anxiety and discomfort, particularly if their needs are urgent. Requesting additional help from management may also be necessary in some situations, but immediate collaboration with colleagues allows for a quicker response to patient needs in the moment. Focusing on teamwork is integral to providing high-quality care, especially in high-pressure situations.