A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who is unconscious and requires surgery. There is no one available to give consent for the treatment. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Prepare the client for surgery.
Contact the facility's ethics committee for guidance.
Keep the client stable until a family member arrives to give consent.
Obtain consent from the surgeon.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Prepare the client for surgery: In emergency situations, if immediate intervention is required to save the client’s life or prevent significant harm, the principle of implied consent may apply. This means that if the client is unconscious and immediate treatment is necessary, healthcare providers may proceed with treatment under the assumption that the client would consent if able. However, this should be done in accordance with facility policies and legal guidelines.
B. Contact the facility's ethics committee for guidance: Contacting the ethics committee can be helpful for guidance on how to handle consent issues in complex situations, but it might not provide a timely solution for immediate emergency situations.
C. Keep the client stable until a family member arrives to give consent: While stabilizing the client's condition is important, waiting for a family member to arrive to give consent may not be feasible in emergency situations where immediate treatment is necessary. The nurse should seek guidance from appropriate channels to determine the best course of action.
D. Obtain consent from the surgeon: Surgeons do not have the authority to provide consent for treatment on behalf of a client who is unconscious. Consent must come from a legally authorized decision-maker, such as the client themselves if they have previously provided informed consent, or a designated healthcare proxy.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Move items in the room away from the client: During a seizure, the client may have uncontrolled movements that could cause them to hit nearby objects and potentially injure themselves. Moving items away from the client helps create a safer environment and reduces the risk of injury from contact with objects.
B. Loosen the client's clothing: Seizures can lead to muscle contractions and movements that might constrict the client's clothing, particularly around the neck or chest area. Loosening the client's clothing helps ensure that their breathing is not restricted during the seizure.
C. Turn the client onto their side: Turning the client onto their side is an important step for airway protection. During a seizure, there is a risk of saliva or vomit obstructing the airway, which can lead to aspiration. Turning the client onto their side helps prevent aspiration by allowing any fluids to drain out safely and maintaining an open airway.
D. Help the client lie on the floor: If the client is seated in a chair during a seizure, it's safer to assist them in lying on the floor. This action prevents the client from falling out of the chair and potentially sustaining injuries from the fall. Once on the floor, the nurse can continue to monitor the client and provide appropriate care and support.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "We can discuss what you can expect during your stay."
This statement acknowledges the client's feelings of anxiety and offers support by indicating a willingness to discuss what they can expect during their stay. Providing information about the facility's routines, procedures, and what to expect can help alleviate anxiety by giving the client a sense of control and understanding. It also opens the door for the client to ask questions and express any concerns they may have.
B. "Most people are scared their first time in a health care facility":
While this statement attempts to normalize the client's feelings by suggesting that it is common to feel scared, it may not effectively address the client's individual concerns or provide reassurance. Additionally, some clients may not find comfort in knowing that others are also scared.
C. "You have nothing to worry about. Everything will be fine":
This statement may come across as dismissive of the client's feelings and does not acknowledge or validate their anxiety. It also makes assumptions about the client's experience and may not be accurate for all clients. Providing blanket reassurances without addressing the client's specific concerns may not be effective in alleviating their anxiety.
D. "Why are you feeling scared about being in this facility?":
While it is important for the nurse to explore the client's feelings and concerns, asking a direct question like this may put pressure on the client to articulate their anxiety without offering immediate support or reassurance. It is better to provide a statement that offers support and opens the door for the client to express their concerns in their own time and comfort level.
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