A nurse is supervising a newly licensed nurse who is caring for a client on a behavioral health unit.

Exhibits

Complete the following sentence by using the list of options.

The nurse should instruct the newly licensed nurse to first

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then

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.

Rationale:

A. The client should sign the informed consent if they are alert, oriented, and capable of making decisions. The client's ability to understand the procedure and its implications is key to valid informed consent.

B. The client's son, who has a durable power of attorney would only sign the consent if the client were not competent or unable to understand the procedure, which is not the case here.

C. The client's partner may be involved in the decision-making process but does not have the legal authority to sign the consent unless designated as a legal representative.

D. The client's daughter, who is the primary caregiver would also not have the legal authority to sign the consent unless she holds a durable power of attorney or the client is deemed incapable of giving consent.

A. Nonmaleficence: By completing a critical care and emergency nursing course before transferring to the ICU, the nurse is ensuring they are adequately prepared to care for critically ill clients. This action minimizes the risk of harm caused by a lack of knowledge or skill, demonstrating adherence to the principle of nonmaleficence.

B. Veracity: Veracity refers to truthfulness and honesty in interactions with clients and colleagues. While important, this scenario does not focus on providing truthful information.

C. Autonomy: Autonomy refers to respecting a client's right to make decisions about their care. This scenario does not involve supporting or promoting client decision-making.

D. Fidelity: Fidelity refers to being faithful to commitments and promises made to clients or the profession. While the nurse is demonstrating professional responsibility, this scenario aligns more closely with nonmaleficence than fidelity.