A nurse is assisting with the development of an education program for a group of older adults.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A rationale:

The client with cirrhosis and severe pruritus is experiencing discomfort, but it is not an immediate life-threatening situation. The priority should be given to clients with conditions that pose an immediate risk to life.

Choice B rationale:

Numbness of the toes in a client with a femur fracture can indicate compromised circulation or nerve damage. This is a critical situation that requires immediate assessment and intervention to prevent complications like compartment syndrome or permanent nerve damage.

Choice C rationale:

A client who had a laparoscopic appendectomy 8 hours ago and is awaiting discharge is likely stable. While they need monitoring, it is not an urgent priority compared to the client with a potential vascular or nerve issue.

Choice D rationale:

Pink-tinged urine after a renal biopsy could indicate some bleeding, but it is not as urgent as the situation of the client with a femur fracture and numbness of the toes.

The correct answer is Choice A. Notify the charge nurse about the situation.

Choice A rationale: This is the correct answer because the nurse should notify the charge nurse or the provider who is responsible for obtaining informed consent from the client. The nurse cannot obtain informed consent from a client who does not understand the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure. The nurse should also respect the client’s right to refuse or withdraw consent at any time. By notifying the charge nurse or the provider, the nurse ensures that the client receives adequate information and clarification before giving consent.This is consistent with the ethical and legal principles of informed consent in nursing

Choice B rationale: This is incorrect because the nurse should not ask the client to sign the consent form anyway. This would violate the client’s autonomy and right to make informed decisions about their health. It would also expose the nurse and the provider to legal and ethical consequences for performing a procedure without valid consent. The nurse should ensure that the client understands the information provided and agrees to the procedure voluntarily. Asking the client to sign the consent form anyway would undermine the trust and communication between the client and the healthcare team.

Choice C rationale: This is incorrect because the nurse should not explain to the client that the procedure will help treat his diagnosis. This is not the nurse’s role or responsibility in the process of obtaining informed consent. The nurse should not provide information that is beyond their scope of practice or expertise. The nurse should also not persuade or coerce the client to agree to the procedure. The nurse should refer the client to the provider who can explain the rationale and evidence for the procedure and answer any questions or concerns the client may have.

Choice D rationale: This is incorrect because the nurse should not remind the client about the specifics of the procedure. This is not the nurse’s role or responsibility in the process of obtaining informed consent. The nurse should not repeat or restate information that the provider has already given to the client. The nurse should also not assume that the client has forgotten or misunderstood the information. The nurse should respect the client’s right to ask questions and seek clarification from the provider who can provide accurate and comprehensive information about the procedure.