After the nurse witnesses a preoperative client signing the surgical consent form, the nurse signs the form as a witness. Which is the legal implication of the nurse's signature on the client's surgical consent form? Select all that apply.
Verifies that the client understands the procedure that is being performed.
The client is competent to sign the consent without impairment of judgment.
The client voluntarily grants permission for the procedure to be done.
The surgeon has explained to the client why the surgery is necessary.
The client understands the risks and benefits associated with the procedure.
Correct Answer : B,C
Choice A rationale
The nurse’s signature on the surgical consent form does not verify the client’s understanding of the procedure. This responsibility lies with the physician or surgeon, who must ensure that the client is fully informed about the nature, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure. The nurse’s role is to witness the client’s signature, confirming that the client has signed the form without coercion and is competent to do so.
Choice B rationale
The client’s competence to sign the consent form is a crucial aspect that the nurse witnesses. By signing as a witness, the nurse attests that the client is mentally sound and capable of making informed decisions about their medical care. This includes verifying that the client is not under the influence of substances that could impair judgment and that they understand the nature of the consent they are giving.
Choice C rationale
The client voluntarily granting permission for the procedure is another key element of the nurse’s witnessing role. The nurse’s signature confirms that the client has signed the consent form of their own free will, without any undue pressure or coercion. This ensures the validity of the consent and protects the client’s rights and autonomy in making healthcare decisions.
Choice D rationale
The explanation of the procedure, its necessity, and potential outcomes are the responsibility of the surgeon or physician. The nurse does not provide this detailed explanation but ensures that the client has had the opportunity to receive this information from the appropriate healthcare provider. The nurse’s signature does not verify that the surgeon has explained the procedure; it simply confirms the witnessing of the client’s signature.
Choice E rationale
Understanding the risks and benefits of the procedure is part of the informed consent process, which the physician or surgeon must explain to the client. The nurse’s role is to witness the client’s signature, ensuring that the client has had the opportunity to receive this information. The nurse’s signature does not confirm the client’s understanding of these details but indicates that the consent was signed voluntarily and competently.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The scenario indicates that the client's contractions are increasing in frequency and intensity, and she reports significant pain, prompting a request for an epidural. The cervical exam shows she is 5 cm dilated and 90% effaced, with the baby at 0 station, which is typical for the active phase of labor. This is the appropriate time for an epidural, as pain management is often needed when contractions become more intense and dilation progresses. Clear amniotic fluid after artificial rupture of membranes also suggests no immediate complications.
Choice B rationale
Immediate cesarean section is generally reserved for situations of fetal distress or other obstetric emergencies. There is no mention of fetal heart rate abnormalities or other signs of distress in the scenario. While MS can complicate pregnancy, it does not automatically necessitate a cesarean section without specific indications. The decision for cesarean should be based on maternal or fetal indications not present in this case.
Choice C rationale
The instruction to start pushing is only appropriate during the second stage of labor when the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm). The client is 5 cm dilated, indicating she is still in the active phase of the first stage of labor. Encouraging pushing at this stage would be premature and could cause unnecessary exhaustion and potential harm to the cervix and fetus. Pushing is typically reserved for the final stage when the baby's head is crowning.
Choice D rationale
Administering an epidural and experiencing immediate pain relief aligns with the standard protocol for labor analgesia when requested by the client. Epidural anesthesia is a common and effective method for pain management during labor. This option respects the client's expressed need for pain relief and involves the healthcare provider in safely administering the epidural. Immediate relief from pain can help the client focus on labor progression and reduce stress.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Active labor with moderate contractions indicates that the cervix is dilating and the client is progressing in labor. It signifies that the client is experiencing significant pain and discomfort, making her a candidate for epidural anesthesia for pain relief.
Choice B rationale: Pain reported as 7/10 on a numeric pain scale indicates that the client is experiencing severe pain. Epidural anesthesia is effective in managing severe labor pain and improving the client's comfort during the birthing process.
Choice C rationale: Membranes are intact does not indicate that the client is ready for epidural anesthesia. The status of the membranes does not affect the timing of administering epidural anesthesia.
Choice D rationale: Fetal heart rate is reactive with moderate variability indicates that the fetus is in good condition and tolerating labor well. Epidural anesthesia can be safely administered when fetal monitoring shows reassuring signs.
Choice E rationale: IV line has been initiated is a necessary step for administering epidural anesthesia, but it does not alone indicate that the client is ready for the procedure. Other indicators of labor progression are needed.
Choice F rationale: Blood pressure is 130/80 mmHg indicates that the client's blood pressure is within normal limits. While it's important to have stable vital signs before administering an epidural, this alone does not indicate readiness for the procedure.
Choice G rationale: Temperature is 99.0°F (37.2°C) is within the normal range and does not affect the timing of administering epidural anesthesia. Temperature monitoring is important, but it is not a primary factor in determining readiness for an epidural.
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