If a nurse is causing excessive harm to a patient, what is the best action to take?

The best action to take in this situation is to speak with your direct supervisor or the nurse's supervisor. This response aligns with established protocols for addressing issues related to patient safety and quality of care. Reporting to a supervisor allows for the concern to be addressed at the appropriate organizational level, ensuring that there is a structured response to the situation. Supervisors typically have the authority and the resources to investigate the issue further, take corrective actions, and implement any necessary safety measures to prevent further harm.

Additionally, approaching a supervisor helps to maintain professionalism and avoid potential confrontations, which could escalate the situation or compromise patient safety. This course of action also ensures that the incident is documented within institutional reporting systems, which is crucial for accountability and improving practice within healthcare settings.