A nurse is caring for a client who has physical restraints applied. The nurse determines that the restraints should be removed when which of the following occurs?

A. Request that the client's partner sign the consent form:
While involving the client's partner might offer emotional support and facilitate communication, legal and ethical guidelines typically require the informed consent of the individual undergoing the procedure. Having a partner sign the form without the client's explicit consent would not adhere to these standards.

B. Inform the client about the risks of refusing ECT:
Educating the client about the potential risks and benefits of ECT, as well as discussing alternative treatments, is a crucial step in the informed consent process. However, merely informing the client does not replace the need for the client to provide explicit, written consent for the procedure to be performed legally and ethically.

C. Cancel the scheduled ECT procedure:
This is the correct action. Without the client's signed consent, the procedure cannot proceed. Canceling the ECT procedure respects the client's autonomy and adheres to legal and ethical standards surrounding informed consent. The healthcare team should continue to engage with the client, addressing any concerns and questions, to obtain their informed and voluntary consent before rescheduling the procedure if the client chooses to proceed.

D. Proceed with preparation for ECT based on implied consent:
Implied consent is not sufficient for significant medical procedures such as ECT. Implied consent implies agreement based on actions or behavior rather than explicit, informed agreement. For procedures like ECT, it is essential to have documented, explicit, and voluntary consent from the client before proceeding. Relying solely on implied consent would not meet the ethical and legal requirements for informed consent.

A. Contact a close relative of the client to discuss the discharge plan:
Involving close relatives or a support system can be beneficial for the client's recovery. However, it's crucial to respect the client's confidentiality and privacy. In some cases, clients might not want their relatives involved or might not have a supportive family environment, so this option should be approached cautiously and with the client's consent.

B. Refer the client to a self-help group:
This is a highly recommended action. Self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide a supportive environment where individuals with alcohol use disorder can share their experiences and coping strategies. These groups can significantly contribute to maintaining sobriety after rehabilitation.

C. Request a discharge prescription for buprenorphine for the client:
Buprenorphine is typically used to treat opioid use disorder, not alcohol use disorder. Medications like disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate are more commonly prescribed to help individuals manage alcohol cravings and maintain abstinence. However, the choice of medication should be individualized and determined by a healthcare provider based on the client's specific needs and medical history.

D. Teach the client to practice systematic desensitization:
Systematic desensitization is a therapeutic technique used to treat phobias and anxieties by gradually exposing individuals to their fears in a controlled and safe manner. While it can be helpful for addressing anxiety-related issues, it's not a standard treatment for alcohol use disorder. Therapeutic interventions for alcohol use disorder often focus on behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups.