Before referring a client to an external healthcare service, what must the nurse prioritize?

Prioritizing the service's admission criteria is essential before referring a client to an external healthcare service. Admission criteria establish the specific requirements for clients to access a service, including eligibility based on medical necessity, the type of care provided, and the client's unique needs. This step is crucial because it ensures that the client will receive appropriate care and that their specific health condition aligns with what the external service can offer.

Understanding admission criteria protects the nurse from unintentionally placing the client in a situation where they might not receive the necessary care. It also facilitates a smoother transition for the client and ensures continuity of care, which is vital for effective treatment outcomes. In this context, awareness of the admission policies directly impacts the safety and well-being of the client upon referral.

While cultural values, the current healthcare facility's census, and the case mix may all have relevance in broader care planning or system management, they do not take precedence over ensuring that the client meets the admission criteria of the external service, which is critical for successful referral and ongoing treatment.