A nurse is obtaining an oxygen saturation on a client.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

The correct answer is Choice B.

Choice A rationale: This client has a new diagnosis and requires initial teaching about meal planning, which is typically a responsibility of a registered nurse (RN) due to the need for specialized knowledge and teaching skills.

Choice B rationale: This client has a low urinary output, which needs to be monitored, but the care required is within the scope of practice of a licensed practical nurse (LPN). They can manage and report findings to the RN.

Choice C rationale: This client has a low respiratory rate postoperatively, which could indicate respiratory depression. This requires immediate assessment and intervention from an RN, who can make complex clinical judgments and initiate appropriate care.

Choice D rationale: This client needs an admission assessment, which includes comprehensive initial evaluation. An RN is required for this as it involves detailed assessment, care planning, and initiation of care.

The correct answer is Choice A. Notify the charge nurse about the situation.

Choice A rationale: This is the correct answer because the nurse should notify the charge nurse or the provider who is responsible for obtaining informed consent from the client. The nurse cannot obtain informed consent from a client who does not understand the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure. The nurse should also respect the client’s right to refuse or withdraw consent at any time. By notifying the charge nurse or the provider, the nurse ensures that the client receives adequate information and clarification before giving consent.This is consistent with the ethical and legal principles of informed consent in nursing

Choice B rationale: This is incorrect because the nurse should not ask the client to sign the consent form anyway. This would violate the client’s autonomy and right to make informed decisions about their health. It would also expose the nurse and the provider to legal and ethical consequences for performing a procedure without valid consent. The nurse should ensure that the client understands the information provided and agrees to the procedure voluntarily. Asking the client to sign the consent form anyway would undermine the trust and communication between the client and the healthcare team.

Choice C rationale: This is incorrect because the nurse should not explain to the client that the procedure will help treat his diagnosis. This is not the nurse’s role or responsibility in the process of obtaining informed consent. The nurse should not provide information that is beyond their scope of practice or expertise. The nurse should also not persuade or coerce the client to agree to the procedure. The nurse should refer the client to the provider who can explain the rationale and evidence for the procedure and answer any questions or concerns the client may have.

Choice D rationale: This is incorrect because the nurse should not remind the client about the specifics of the procedure. This is not the nurse’s role or responsibility in the process of obtaining informed consent. The nurse should not repeat or restate information that the provider has already given to the client. The nurse should also not assume that the client has forgotten or misunderstood the information. The nurse should respect the client’s right to ask questions and seek clarification from the provider who can provide accurate and comprehensive information about the procedure.