A nurse is assessing a client following abdominal surgery. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A. "I cannot be a witness for your consent to donate.": While a nurse often cannot witness the consent form to avoid a conflict of interest, this response does not directly address the client’s need for information about how to become an organ donor.

B. "Your name cannot be removed once you are listed on the organ donor list.": Clients can change their decision about organ donation at any time, and their name can be removed from the registry if they choose.

C. "Your desire to be an organ donor must be documented in writing.": Documenting consent in writing ensures legal clarity and verifies the client’s intent. Written consent is required to formalize organ donation in the medical record or donor registry.

D. "You must be at least 21 years of age to become an organ donor.": Age requirements for organ donation vary by jurisdiction, and many states allow individuals younger than 21 to register as donors, often with parental consent if under 18.

Rationale:

A. Limit visitors to 30 min per day: Time restrictions help reduce others’ exposure to radiation from the sealed implant. Limiting duration minimizes cumulative exposure for visitors while still allowing social interaction for the client.

B. Place the client in a semi-private room: Clients with internal radiation implants require a private room to protect others from unnecessary radiation exposure. A semi-private room increases the risk of radiation exposure to other patients and is inappropriate.

C. Instruct visitors who are pregnant to remain 3 feet from the client: Pregnant visitors should avoid contact with clients receiving internal radiation entirely, as even minimal exposure could harm the fetus. The safest recommendation is to avoid visiting during treatment.

D. Wear a lead apron when providing care: A lead apron shields the nurse from radiation exposure, especially when working close to the client. This is part of the time, distance, and shielding principles for radiation safety.

E. Close the door to the client's room: Keeping the door closed helps contain radiation within the client’s room, reducing exposure to staff and visitors in nearby areas. This is a standard precaution in caring for clients with sealed implants.