A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a 16-year-old client who reports abdominal pain and is accompanied by an adult neighbor. The provider diagnoses a ruptured appendix and states that the client requires an emergency appendectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because requesting orientation to the medical-surgical unit is not the first action the nurse should take. Orientation is a process that takes time and planning, and it may not be feasible or necessary for a temporary assignment. The nurse should first ensure that they are competent to perform the tasks and procedures required on the medical-surgical unit.

Choice B reason: This is not the correct choice because referring to the assigned resource nurse regarding client assignments is not the first action the nurse should take. The resource nurse is a person who can provide guidance and support to the nurse during the shift, but they are not responsible for determining the nurse's competencies or assigning clients. The nurse should first communicate with the charge nurse, who is the leader of the unit and has the authority to assign clients according to the nurse's skills and experience.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct choice because informing the nursing supervisor of the lack of experience on the medical-surgical unit is not the first action the nurse should take. The nursing supervisor is a person who can oversee the staffing and operations of the nursing units, but they are not directly involved in the clinical care of the clients or the education of the staff. The nurse should first consult with the charge nurse, who can assess the nurse's competencies and provide appropriate resources and education.

Choice D reason: This is the correct choice because clarifying competencies with the medical-surgical charge nurse is the first action the nurse should take. The charge nurse is a person who can evaluate the nurse's skills and knowledge, assign clients according to the nurse's level of expertise, and provide orientation and training as needed. The nurse should be honest and proactive in communicating their competencies and learning needs to the charge nurse.

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because this action is not legally required or ethically appropriate. The client has the right to refuse treatment and leave the hospital at any time, as long as she is competent and informed of the risks and consequences. The nurse should not coerce or threaten the client to stay against her will.

Choice B reason: This is not the correct choice because this action is not helpful or respectful. The client may have valid reasons for wanting to go home, such as personal or financial issues. The nurse should not assume that the client is anxious or irrational and offer her a sedative, which may impair her judgment and consent.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct choice because this action is not necessary or professional. The client is not a threat to herself or others, and does not need to be restrained or guarded by a security officer. The nurse should not use intimidation or force to prevent the client from leaving.

Choice D reason: This is the correct choice because this action is the best practice and the standard procedure. The nurse should explain to the client the benefits of staying and the risks of leaving, and document the conversation. The nurse should also ask the client to sign the Against Medical Advice form, which states that the client understands the implications of her decision and releases the hospital and the provider from liability.