A nurse is speaking with a visitor who asks a question about the status of a relative who is a client on the unit. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because the Good Samaritan Act is a law that protects health care providers and other individuals from legal liability when they provide emergency care to someone who is injured or ill outside of a health care facility. The act does not apply to the staff in the emergency department, who are expected to follow the standards of care and obtain consent for treatment.

Choice B reason: This is the correct choice because implied consent is a type of consent that is assumed when a client is unable to give verbal or written consent due to their condition, and the treatment is necessary to save their life or prevent further harm. The staff can proceed with emergency surgery based on implied consent, as the client is unconscious and has extensive internal injuries that require immediate intervention.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct choice because a living will is a document that expresses a client's wishes regarding their end-of-life care, such as whether they want to receive life-sustaining treatments or not. A living will does not apply to the client in this scenario, who is not terminally ill or in a persistent vegetative state, and who may recover from their injuries with surgery.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct choice because nonmaleficence is an ethical principle that means to do no harm or prevent harm to the client. Nonmaleficence does not permit the staff to proceed with emergency surgery, as it does not override the need for consent. The staff should also consider the principle of beneficence, which means to do good or promote the well-being of the client.

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because this response is insensitive and unprofessional. The nurse should not blame or criticize the client for signing the consent form, as this may make the client feel guilty or pressured. The nurse should respect the client's autonomy and right to change their mind.

Choice B reason: This is not the correct choice because this response is inadequate and irrelevant. The nurse should not assume that the client needs more information about the surgery, as this may not address the client's underlying reasons for being unsure. The nurse should listen to the client's concerns and provide emotional support.

Choice C reason: This is the correct choice because this response is respectful and reassuring. The nurse should acknowledge the client's feelings and let them know that they have the option to cancel the surgery if they are not comfortable with it. The nurse should also inform the provider and the surgical team about the client's situation and facilitate further discussion if needed.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct choice because this response is inappropriate and unethical. The nurse should not offer medication to the client to help them relax, as this may impair their decision-making capacity and consent. The nurse should not coerce or manipulate the client to undergo the surgery.