Which activity is an example of indirect patient care?

Which activity is an example of indirect patient care?

• A. Administering medications
• B. Documenting nursing notes in the chart
• C. Assisting with bathing
• D. Helping patient ambulate

Answer: (B)

Indirect patient care includes tasks that support treatment without directly interacting with the patient at the bedside. Documenting nursing notes in the chart fits here because it records observations, plans, and responses, and communicates this information to the rest of the care team, guiding decisions and ensuring continuity and legal accountability. The other activities involve direct hands-on care: giving medications, helping with bathing, and assisting with ambulation all require physical contact and direct interaction with the patient.

Indirect patient care includes tasks that support treatment without directly interacting with the patient at the bedside. Documenting nursing notes in the chart fits here because it records observations, plans, and responses, and communicates this information to the rest of the care team, guiding decisions and ensuring continuity and legal accountability. The other activities involve direct hands-on care: giving medications, helping with bathing, and assisting with ambulation all require physical contact and direct interaction with the patient.