Sarah Chen, RN, is the nurse manager of a 32-bed medical-sur…
Sarah Chen, RN, is the nurse manager of a 32-bed medical-surgical unit. During the night shift, two nurses call in sick, leaving only three RNs for 28 patients. Sarah receives a call from the emergency department about admitting two post-operative patients. The remaining staff express concerns about patient safety. One experienced nurse, Tom, suggests refusing the admissions. Sarah knows the hospital is at capacity, but she’s worried about staff competence and patient outcomes. What is Sarah’s PRIMARY legal duty in this situation?