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.

Answer and Explanation

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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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Asking the family if they wish to assist in washing the client's body:

This is an important first step because it respects the family's cultural or religious practices and allows them to participate in the care of their loved one if they choose. It sets the tone for sensitive and respectful postmortem care.

B. Removing the client's dentures for their family to keep:

Dentures are usually leftin the mouth tomaintain facial shape.However, this action is not the first priority.

C. Leaving the client's eyes open until the family views the body:

It is generally recommended to gently close the client's eyes after death as part of the postmortem care process. Leaving the eyes open might be distressing for the family, so this action should not be performed first.

D. Turn overhead lights to a bright setting.

Bright lighting may not be comforting for the family or create a peaceful environment. Dim or soft lighting is usually preferred to create a calming atmosphere during this sensitive time. Therefore, this is not the first action the nurse should take.

A. Metabolic syndrome B. Family history of alcohol use disorder C. Participation in competitive sports D. Hypotension

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Metabolic syndrome: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The conditions include increased blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Metabolic syndrome significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by promoting atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries) and increasing the likelihood of developing other risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes.

B. Family history of alcohol use disorder: While excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to cardiovascular disease by raising blood pressure, increasing triglyceride levels, and promoting obesity, a family history of alcohol use disorder alone is not considered a direct risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

C. Participation in competitive sports: Regular physical activity, including participation in competitive sports, is typically associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. However, extreme levels of physical activity or certain types of competitive sports may pose risks, such as sudden cardiac events in individuals with underlying heart conditions. Overall, regular exercise is beneficial for cardiovascular health when performed in moderation and according to individual fitness levels.

D. Hypotension: Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is generally not considered a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In fact, low blood pressure is often associated with a reduced risk of conditions such as heart attack and stroke. However, severe hypotension can indicate underlying health issues and may require medical evaluation and management.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

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