A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is caring for a client who asks about advance directives and states that he wants to appoint a health care proxy. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

a. A visitor experiences a minor burn after spilling coffee:

This situation does not present an ethical dilemma. It is a minor accident that can be addressed through appropriate first aid and safety measures.

b. A parent wants her 14-year-old adolescent to receive radiation treatment against his will:

This situation involves a conflict between parental authority and the autonomy of the adolescent. It raises questions about the adolescent's capacity to make medical decisions, the role of parental consent, and the rights of the adolescent to refuse treatment. Therefore, it represents an ethical dilemma.

c. A nurse witnesses another nurse administer an incorrect medication:

While this situation involves patient safety and professional responsibility, it does not inherently pose an ethical dilemma. It is a matter of patient safety and adherence to professional standards rather than conflicting moral principles.

d. A client receives an operation on the wrong side of her body:

This situation represents a serious medical error and a violation of patient safety protocols. While it may have ethical implications related to accountability, negligence, and patient harm, it primarily involves issues of medical error rather than a true ethical dilemma.

a. Review the chart for nonrestraint alternatives for agitation:

This action involves assessing the client's history, current condition, and any documented alternatives to restraints for managing agitation. While exploring nonrestraint interventions is important, addressing the immediate issue of inappropriate restraint use should take precedence.

b. Inform the unit manager:

Notifying the unit manager about the incident is important for escalating the situation and involving higher-level management in addressing the inappropriate use of restraints. However, before escalating, the immediate needs of the client should be addressed.

c. Speak with the AP about the incident:

Engaging in a conversation with the assistive personnel (AP) who applied the restraints allows for clarification of the situation, identification of any misunderstandings or training needs regarding restraint use, and immediate removal of the restraints if necessary. However, ensuring the client's safety should be the first priority.

d. Remove the restraints from the client’s wrist:

In situations where restraints are applied without a prescription or appropriate authorization, it is crucial to remove the restraints promptly to prevent potential harm to the client. However, it is essential to address the root cause of the inappropriate use of restraints and ensure that the client receives appropriate care and monitoring following restraint removal.