Which practice should registered nurses avoid when caring for stable patients?

Registered nurses should avoid establishing treatment plans independently when caring for stable patients because this practice falls outside the collaborative approach essential in patient care. In a healthcare setting, developing and modifying treatment plans is often a shared responsibility that involves the input of various healthcare professionals, including physicians and other members of the healthcare team. This ensures that the patient receives comprehensive care based on a multidisciplinary perspective.

Collaboration is critical for ensuring that all aspects of a patient's condition are addressed effectively and that treatment aligns with the latest clinical guidelines and practices. By working within a team, nurses can enhance patient safety and optimize outcomes. Establishing treatment plans without the necessary input or collaboration undermines the value of teamwork and may lead to gaps in care or oversight of important patient factors.

In contrast, closely monitoring vital signs, delegating tasks to licensed practical/vocational nurses, and providing medication education are all practices that support safe, effective care and demonstrate appropriate utilization of nursing resources in a stable patient population.