A nurse on a medical surgical unit is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?

A. Incorrect. Justice refers to fairness and equal treatment for all clients. It is not demonstrated in this scenario.
B. Correct. Fidelity, also known as "faithfulness" or "loyalty," refers to the nurse's commitment to keeping promises and maintaining trust with the client. By walking with the client as promised, the nurse is demonstrating fidelity.
C. Incorrect. Autonomy refers to the client's right to make decisions about their own care and treatment. While the nurse is respecting the client's autonomy by addressing their anxiety, the ethical principle being demonstrated here is fidelity.
D. Incorrect. Nonmaleficence refers to the duty to do no harm. While the nurse is indeed trying to prevent harm (anxiety. for the client, the ethical principle being demonstrated in this scenario is fidelity.

Informed consent is a crucial aspect of the patient's rights and autonomy in healthcare. It involves the voluntary and knowledgeable agreement of a competent individual to undergo a specific medical intervention or procedure. The provider is responsible for explaining the procedure, its potential risks and benefits, alternative options, and any potential complications to the patient. Once the patient has received this information and has had an opportunity to ask questions, they can provide their consent by signing the informed consent form.

"We can accept verbal consent unless the surgical procedure is an emergency." Verbal consent is generally not sufficient for most non-emergency surgical procedures. Informed consent typically requires a written documentation, signed by the patient or their legally authorized representative, to ensure clarity, accountability, and legal protection.

"We require informed consent for all routine treatments." Informed consent is typically required for invasive procedures, surgeries, and treatments with potential risks. Routine treatments that are considered low risk and part of standard care may not require explicit informed consent.

However, it is still important for healthcare providers to inform and involve patients in their care decisions.

"A family member must witness your signature on the informed consent form." While it is often beneficial to have a witness to the patient's informed consent, it does not necessarily have to be a family member. The witness can be any competent individual who can attest to the patient's signing of the form and their understanding of the procedure.