A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for outpatient surgery. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to verify the client gave informed consent?

The correct answer is choice D: Explore alternative solutions to address unit workflow with the nurses.

Choice A rationale:

Scheduling the nurses to work on alternating shifts (Choice A) might alleviate the immediate conflict, but it doesn't address the root cause of the issue, which is their perceived unequal workload. This approach could also disrupt the unit's continuity of care and potentially lead to further conflicts.

Choice B rationale:

Organizing a task force to evaluate the situation (Choice B) could be beneficial in the long run for identifying systemic issues contributing to the conflict. However, this approach might take time to yield results. In the meantime, the conflict could continue to negatively impact the unit's functioning.

Choice C rationale:

Telling the nurses that it's their responsibility to cooperate with coworkers (Choice C) is oversimplifying the situation. While cooperation is important, conflicts often arise from deeper issues that need to be addressed constructively. This choice doesn't provide a clear plan for resolving the workload disparity.

Choice D rationale:

Exploring alternative solutions to address unit workflow with the nurses (Choice D) is the most effective approach. By engaging the nurses in problem-solving discussions, the charge nurse can identify the reasons behind their perception of unfair workload distribution and collaboratively develop strategies to ensure a more equitable division of tasks. This approach promotes communication, collaboration, and shared accountability.

The correct answer is choice B.

Choice A rationale:

The client does not have transportation for discharge home. Rationale: While transportation is important for discharge planning, it is not the priority concern in this situation. The client's immediate needs and well-being take precedence over transportation concerns.

Choice B rationale:

The client refuses to attend physical therapy sessions. Rationale: The correct choice. After a hip surgery, physical therapy is crucial for preventing complications, promoting mobility, and ensuring optimal recovery. The refusal to attend these sessions could lead to delayed healing, increased risk of complications, and impaired functional outcomes. Addressing the client's resistance to therapy is a priority to ensure the best possible recovery.

Choice C rationale:

The client's home health nurse has not completed the home assessment. Rationale: While a home assessment is important for discharge planning, it is not the most immediate concern. The client's refusal to attend physical therapy could have more immediate and significant effects on their recovery and well-being.

Choice D rationale:

The client describes feelings of depression after family visits. Rationale: While addressing the client's emotional well-being is important, it is not the priority concern in this situation. The refusal to attend physical therapy sessions could have physical consequences that take precedence over the emotional aspect.