A nurse is caring for a client who has Alzheimer's disease and appears anxious. The client asks the nurse to stay at their bedside. Which of the following responses should the nurse make to reduce the client's anxiety?

Choice A rationale:

During bladder irrigation, the nurse should instill a specific volume of the prescribed irrigation solution into the bladder to facilitate the removal of clots, mucus, or other debris from the urinary catheter and bladder. The recommended volume to instill is usually 400 to 500 mL, which helps to effectively flush out the bladder without overdistending it.

Choice B rationale:

Clamping the drainage tubing distal to the injection port during bladder irrigation is incorrect. The drainage tubing should remain unclamped to allow the irrigation solution to flow into the bladder and facilitate the removal of debris. Clamping the tubing would prevent the solution from entering the bladder and hinder the irrigation process.

Choice C rationale:

Using a syringe with a 19-gauge needle is not relevant to the process of bladder irrigation. Bladder irrigation is typically performed using a specific irrigation kit that includes appropriate tubing and components, not a syringe and needle.

Choice D rationale:

Withdrawing the irrigation solution into the syringe is not a standard procedure during bladder irrigation. The purpose of bladder irrigation is to instill a specific volume of solution into the bladder and then allow it to drain out, flushing the bladder in the process. Drawing the solution back into a syringe after instillation would disrupt the intended irrigation process.

Choice A rationale:

Justice refers to the fair distribution of resources and benefits. It pertains to treating individuals equitably and ensuring that their rights are respected. However, in this scenario, the nurse is specifically addressing the client's right to refuse treatment, which aligns more with the concept of autonomy.

Choice B rationale:

Veracity is the principle of truthfulness and honesty in communication between healthcare professionals and clients. While it is an important ethical principle, it does not directly relate to the client's right to refuse treatment. This right falls under the principle of autonomy, where individuals have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare, including the decision to refuse treatment.

Choice C rationale:

Fidelity, also known as loyalty or faithfulness, refers to the nurse's commitment to keeping promises and being dedicated to the well-being of the client. While respecting the client's autonomy is part of being faithful to their needs and preferences, the specific right to refuse treatment is better categorized under the principle of autonomy.

Choice D rationale:

Autonomy is the correct choice. Autonomy emphasizes an individual's right to make decisions regarding their own healthcare based on their values, beliefs, and preferences. In this context, the nurse's responsibility is to uphold the client's autonomy by respecting their decision to refuse treatment. The nurse should ensure that the client has been properly informed about the risks and benefits of the treatment and that their decision is voluntary and informed.