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: Contacting the client's next of kin to obtain consent for treatment is not a correct action, as it may delay the necessary and urgent care for the client. The nurse should assume that the client would consent to life-saving treatment and act in the client's best interest.

Choice B reason: Proceeding with treatment without obtaining written consent is the correct action, as it is justified by the emergency doctrine. The nurse should provide immediate and appropriate care for the client who is unable to give consent due to their condition.

Choice C reason: Having the client sign a consent for treatment is not a correct action, as the client is disoriented and cannot give informed consent. The nurse should not ask the client to sign any documents that they may not understand or remember.

Choice D reason: Notifying risk management before initiating treatment is not a correct action, as it is not a priority in an emergency situation. The nurse should focus on the client's needs and safety and document the care provided and the rationale for the actions taken.