A practical nurse (PN) is reluctant to use new blood glucose monitoring equipment despite having attended the mandatory in-service about the equipment. Which action is best for the charge nurse to take?

Choice A reason: Allowing the PN to continue using old equipment undermines the purpose of the mandatory in-service and compromises patient safety. New equipment is introduced to improve accuracy, efficiency, and standardization of care. Encouraging use of outdated devices delays competency development and risks inconsistent results. Choice B reason: Simply assuring the PN that they have the needed skills does not address the underlying reluctance. Confidence is built through supervised practice and demonstration of competence, not verbal reassurance alone. This option fails to provide practical support. Choice C reason: Observing the PN while using the new equipment is the best action. Direct observation allows the charge nurse to assess the PN’s technique, identify gaps in understanding, and provide immediate feedback. This approach reinforces learning, ensures safe practice, and builds confidence through guided application. It also ensures compliance with institutional standards. Choice D reason: Demonstrating the procedure again may be helpful, but the PN has already attended the in-service training. Repetition alone does not guarantee competency. Observation of the PN performing the skill is more effective because it validates their ability and provides an opportunity for correction in real time.