A nurse is serving on a committee that is considering the creation of a policy that will allow nurses to insert peripherally inserted central catheters in the intensive care unit. Which of the following resources should the nurse consult in planning for this policy?

The correct answer is choice B: "This is a procedure that does not require written informed consent."

Choice B rationale: Informed consent is typically required for invasive procedures, surgery, or treatments that carry significant risks. While inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is considered an invasive procedure, it is generally not a procedure that requires written informed consent. Nurses often have standing orders or standardized procedures in place for catheterization, and consent is usually implied or obtained verbally.

Choice A rationale: Although providers prescribe procedures, consent is still necessary in many cases. However, as mentioned above, written informed consent is not typically required for urinary catheter insertion due to its routine nature in medical care.

Choice C rationale: Discussing the issue with the charge nurse is unnecessary since written informed consent is not generally required for this procedure. The nurse should instead focus on educating the family about standard hospital practices.

Choice D rationale: Asking the family to sign the informed consent form at this point is not appropriate, as it implies that the procedure should not have been performed without written consent. Additionally, urinary catheterization does not typically require written informed consent, so asking them to sign a form could create confusion or unnecessary concern.

Choice A rationale:

The National League for Nursing (NLN) focuses on nursing education standards and resources for nursing faculty. While it could provide useful insights, it's not the primary resource for policy creation related to procedures like catheter insertion.

Choice B rationale:

The American Academy of Nursing (AAN) is a professional organization that promotes leadership and education within nursing. While it might offer recommendations, it's not the primary resource for policy related to procedural changes in clinical settings.

Choice C rationale:

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) is involved in research and quality improvement initiatives in healthcare. While it could provide evidence-based practices, it's not the primary source for policies specific to nursing procedures.

Choice D rationale:

The State Nurse Practice Act (NPA) outlines the scope of nursing practice within a particular state. It governs what nurses are allowed to do, including procedures like catheter insertion. The NPA ensures that nursing actions are within legal and regulatory bounds, making it the most relevant resource for creating a policy about catheter insertion.