A nurse in a provider's office is collecting data from a client who has psoriasis.

Which of the following statements by the client should the nurse report to the provider?

1. "Your health care surrogate will make decisions on your behalf if you are unable": This statement is correct. A health care surrogate, also known as a health care proxy or durable power of attorney for health care, is an individual designated by the client to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to make decisions for themselves. It is important for the client to choose someone they trust and who understands their values and wishes.
2. "You should appoint a family member as your health care surrogate": This statement is a subjective recommendation and may not be applicable to all individuals. The decision of whom to appoint as a health care surrogate should be based on the client's personal preferences and the individual's ability to make informed decisions according to the client's wishes. While a family member is often chosen, it is not a requirement, and the client may choose a close friend, partner, or anyone else they trust to fulfill this role.
   1. "You will need an attorney to appoint a health care surrogate": This statement is not necessarily true. While involving an attorney can be helpful, it is not always required to appoint a health care surrogate. In many jurisdictions, a legally valid healthcare surrogate designation can be made through a simple document or form provided by the hospital or a local government office. It is important to check the specific legal requirements in the client's jurisdiction.

"Your health care surrogate will make decisions on your behalf if you are unable": This statement is correct. A health care surrogate, also known as a health care proxy or durable power of attorney for health care, is an individual designated by the client to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to make decisions for themselves. It is important for the client to choose someone they trust and who understands their values and wishes.
"You will need an attorney to appoint a health care surrogate": This statement is not necessarily true. While involving an attorney can be helpful, it is not always required to appoint a health care surrogate. In many jurisdictions, a legally valid healthcare surrogate designation can be made through a simple document or form provided by the hospital or a local government office. It is important to check the specific legal requirements in the client's jurisdiction.
"You should appoint a family member as your health care surrogate": This statement is a subjective recommendation and may not be applicable to all individuals. The decision of whom to appoint as a health care surrogate should be based on the client's personal preferences and the individual's ability to make informed decisions according to the client's wishes. While a family member is often chosen, it is not a requirement, and the client may choose a close friend, partner, or anyone else they trust to fulfill this role.
"Once you have completed a living will, it cannot be changed": This statement is incorrect. A living will, which is a type of advanced directive, can be changed or revoked at any time by the client as long as they are competent to do so. It is important for the client to review and update their living will periodically to ensure that it reflects their current wishes regarding medical care and treatment.

By acknowledging and validating the client's feelings of fear and concern, the nurse establishes a supportive and empathetic approach. This response helps build trust and rapport with the client, creating an environment where open communication is encouraged. Engaging in further discussion allows the client to express their thoughts and beliefs, which can aid in understanding their perspective and providing appropriate care.

Option A is not the best response as it directly denies the client's belief, which can further escalate their paranoia and potentially damage the therapeutic relationship.

Option B is also not the best response as it challenges the client's belief without providing validation or understanding. It may make the client defensive and reluctant to share their thoughts further.

Option D is not the best response as it focuses on questioning the client's belief without providing support or empathy. It does not address the underlying fear and may not help the client feel heard or understood.