A nurse is caring for a client whose partner died in a fire that destroyed their home. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A reason

Ensuring that the client's family supports the provider's decision for surgery is not an appropriate action. While family support is essential in the decision-making process, the primary responsibility lies with the client's health care surrogate or designated decision-maker. The family's support is not a substitute for obtaining informed consent from the designated decision-maker.

Choice B reason

Sending the unsigned informed consent form to the facility's risk manager is not appropriate action. The nurse should not send an unsigned informed consent form to the facility's risk manager. Unsigned consent forms do not have any legal significance or validity. The nurse should work with the health care surrogate to ensure that the consent form is appropriately completed and signed.

Choice C reason

Determining if the procedure is medically necessary for the client is not appropriate action. While the medical necessity of the procedure is important, the decision about the procedure's necessity should be made by the medical team and discussed with the health care surrogate. The nurse's role is to facilitate communication and ensure that the surrogate is informed and involved in the decision-making process.

Choice D reason

When a client is in a coma and unable to provide informed consent, the health care surrogate or designated decision-maker becomes responsible for making medical decisions on behalf of the client. It is essential for the nurse to ensure that the health care surrogate is aware of the situation, understands the risks and benefits of the surgical procedure, and has provided informed consent on behalf of the client.

The client is at risk for experiencing electrolyte imbalance due to the vomiting. Persistent vomiting during pregnancy, especially with significant weight loss, can lead to electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia, hyponatremia, or metabolic alkalosis. This can result from the body's inability to retain essential minerals and fluids. The client’s reported diet of minimal food intake, primarily consisting of toast and pretzels, indicates inadequate nutrition and potential for further exacerbation of these imbalances.

The significant weight loss of 6.8 kg (15 lb) within a month and continuous nausea and vomiting are concerning symptoms that warrant immediate medical evaluation. The nurse’s advice to seek a provider’s assessment underscores the need for timely intervention to address potential complications, ensure maternal and fetal health, and possibly prescribe antiemetic medications or other treatments to manage symptoms.