A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for an invasive procedure that requires consent. When the nurse arrives at the bedside to obtain the client's signature they find that the client is asleep after receiving a sedative. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Send the client for the test with the unsigned form.
Wake the client and ask them to sign the form.
Obtain consent from a family member.
Inform the charge nurse.
The Correct Answer is D
A) Send the client for the test with the unsigned form:
This option is not appropriate because performing an invasive procedure without obtaining informed consent from the client violates ethical and legal principles. Proceeding without proper consent could lead to legal and ethical repercussions, and it is not considered a safe or acceptable practice.
B) Wake the client and ask them to sign the form:
Waking the client who has received a sedative to obtain their signature on the consent form is not advisable. The client may still be under the influence of the sedative, which could impair their ability to understand the information provided and make an informed decision. Additionally, obtaining consent in this manner may not be legally valid and could compromise the client's autonomy and rights.
C) Obtain consent from a family member:
While obtaining consent from a family member might seem like a reasonable option, it is not appropriate in this scenario without clear documentation of the client's inability to provide consent. Consent for medical procedures should ideally be obtained directly from the competent adult client unless they are incapacitated or unable to make decisions. In this case, the client is asleep due to the sedative, but there is no indication that they are incapable of providing consent. Therefore, relying on a family member's consent without attempting to obtain it from the client first may not be ethically or legally justified.
D) Inform the charge nurse:
This is the most appropriate action to take initially. Informing the charge nurse allows for consultation and guidance on how to proceed in this situation. The charge nurse may advise on the appropriate steps to follow, such as contacting the provider or waiting for the client to regain consciousness to obtain informed consent. It ensures that the situation is addressed promptly and in accordance with institutional policies and ethical standards.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
"Gather enough supplies to last for 2 weeks": This information is essential for disaster preparedness. During emergencies, such as natural disasters or pandemics, access to resources may be limited for an extended period. Having a sufficient supply of food, water, medications, and other essentials for at least two weeks ensures that older adults can sustain themselves until assistance becomes available.
C) "Have a backup supply of nonprescription medications": It is crucial for older adults to have a backup supply of nonprescription medications, such as pain relievers, antacids, or allergy medications, in case they are unable to access pharmacies during a disaster. Having these medications readily available can help manage common health issues that may arise during emergencies.
D) "Stock 2 liters of water per person per day": Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining health, especially during emergencies when access to clean water may be disrupted. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to dehydration, so having a sufficient supply of water—approximately 2 liters per person per day—for drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes is critical for their well-being.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Recommend occupational therapy referral for the client: This is the priority action because the client is experiencing difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs) due to left-sided weakness following a cerebrovascular accident. Occupational therapy focuses on improving the client's ability to perform ADLs and regain independence. Referring the client to occupational therapy is essential for maximizing functional ability and promoting recovery.
B) Reinforce teaching about the client's prescribed medications: While medication education is important for overall health management, it is not the priority in this situation. The client's immediate need is assistance with ADLs to address functional deficits resulting from the cerebrovascular accident.
C) Provide the client with a list of community resources: Community resources may be beneficial for the client's long-term care and support, but addressing the immediate need for assistance with ADLs takes precedence. Referring the client to occupational therapy will address the functional limitations more directly and effectively.
D) Encourage the client to discuss nutritional needs with a dietitian: Nutritional needs are important for overall health and recovery, but addressing the client's physical limitations and ADLs is the priority at this time. Once the client's ability to perform ADLs improves, discussions about nutrition can follow as part of a comprehensive care plan.
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