A maternity client is in need of surgery. Which healthcare member is legally responsible for obtaining informed consent for an invasive procedure?

Choice A: Bleeding between menses is not the correct answer because it is not a specific clinical manifestation of endometrial polyps. Bleeding between menses is a condition that causes spotting or bleeding at any time other than during the normal menstrual period. It can be caused by various factors such as hormonal imbalance, infection, or pregnancy. It can also occur in some women with endometrial polyps, but it is not a definitive sign of them.

Choice B: Bleeding after intercourse is not the correct answer because it is not a specific clinical manifestation of endometrial polyps. Bleeding after intercourse is a condition that causes bleeding from the vagina or cervix after sexual activity. It can be caused by various factors such as trauma, infection, or cancer. It can also occur in some women with endometrial polyps, but it is not a definitive sign of them.

Choice C: Metrorrhagia is the correct answer because it is a specific clinical manifestation of endometrial polyps. Metrorrhagia is a condition that causes irregular or excessive bleeding from the uterus that is unrelated to the menstrual cycle. It can be caused by various factors such as polyps, fibroids, or cancer. It is a common symptom of endometrial polyps, which are benign growths of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) that can protrude into the uterine cavity and cause bleeding.

Choice D: Vaginal discharge is not the correct answer because it is not a specific clinical manifestation of endometrial polyps. Vaginal discharge is a fluid that comes out of the vagina and varies in color, consistency, and odor depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, sexual activity, or health status. It can be caused by various factors such as normal secretions, infection, or inflammation. It is not a common symptom of endometrial polyps, which do not usually affect the vaginal flora or pH.

Choice A: The social worker is not the correct answer because they are not legally responsible for obtaining informed consent for an invasive procedure. The social worker is a professional who provides psychosocial support and advocacy for clients and families, such as counseling, referrals, or discharge planning.

Choice B: The nurse is not the correct answer because they are not legally responsible for obtaining informed consent for an invasive procedure. The nurse is a professional who provides direct care and education for clients and families, such as assessment, medication administration, or teaching. However, the nurse can assist the physician in obtaining informed consent by witnessing the client's signature, verifying the client's understanding, or documenting the process.

Choice C: The physician is the correct answer because they are legally responsible for obtaining informed consent for an invasive procedure. The physician is a professional who diagnoses and treats clients and families, such as performing surgery, prescribing medication, or ordering tests. The physician must explain the purpose, benefits, risks, alternatives, and consequences of the procedure to the client and obtain their voluntary agreement before proceeding.

Choice D: The unit secretary is not the correct answer because they are not legally responsible for obtaining informed consent for an invasive procedure. The unit secretary is a staff member who performs clerical and administrative tasks for the unit, such as answering phones, filing records, or scheduling appointments.