What should the off-going nurse do if there's a delay in coverage due to an incoming nurse's late arrival?

In the scenario where an incoming nurse is late and there's a delay in coverage, it is essential for the off-going nurse to ensure that patient safety is maintained. Informing the charge nurse about the need for immediate coverage is a critical step. The charge nurse has the authority and responsibility to arrange for immediate coverage to ensure that patients continue to receive appropriate care without interruption.

By notifying the charge nurse, the off-going nurse facilitates a timely response to the situation, which may involve reallocating resources or finding a temporary solution, such as having another nurse cover the patients until the incoming nurse arrives. This action prioritizes patient safety, communication, and effective management of the nursing staff, which are key leadership skills in a healthcare environment.

Other approaches, like taping a report or writing it out for the incoming nurse, do not address the immediate need for coverage, and relying solely on documentation may leave patients vulnerable if there is no one to monitor them during the transition. Therefore, notifying the charge nurse is the most appropriate and responsible action to take under these circumstances.