What is the appropriate action for a nurse manager when informed about falsified information on a medication record?

When a nurse manager is informed about falsified information on a medication record, discussing the incident in private with the nurse involved is the most appropriate action. This approach fosters a professional environment where sensitive issues can be addressed confidentially. It allows the nurse manager to gather all pertinent information directly from the involved nurse, understand the context of the situation, and assess the validity of the report without immediate public confrontation.

Addressing such a serious matter in private also helps to maintain the dignity and respect of all parties involved. This can lead to better communication and potentially uncover any underlying issues that may have contributed to the incident, such as workload pressures or misunderstandings regarding procedures.

In contrast, confronting the nurse publicly could lead to an unnecessary escalation of conflict and could damage team morale. Immediate notification to hospital administration may be warranted later, particularly if further action is required, but it should be preceded by an internal discussion to gather facts. Ignoring the report is not appropriate, as falsified information on medication records poses significant risks to patient safety and violates professional standards.