An unresponsive victim of a diving accident is brought to the emergency department where it is determined that immediate surgery is required to save the client's life. The client is accompanied by a close friend, but no family members are available. Which action should the nurse take first?
Ask the client's friend to sign the informed consent since the client is unresponsive.
Notify the unit manager that an emergency court order is needed to allow surgery.
Carry on with surgical preparation of the client without a signed informed consent.
Continue to provide life support until a thorough search for a guardian is completed.
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale
A. The client's friend may not legally be authorized to provide consent unless they hold medical power of attorney or legal guardianship for the client. Without documentation of such authority, the friend cannot sign the informed consent.
B. In emergency situations where a patient lacks decision-making capacity and there is no available legal guardian or next of kin to provide consent, hospitals may seek a court order to proceed with necessary treatment. However, this could delay emergency treatment.
C. This is based on the legal and ethical understanding that saving the patient's life takes precedence when immediate action is required and consent cannot be obtained.
D. Providing life support ensures that the client's immediate medical needs are addressed while efforts are made to locate a legal guardian. However, unavailability of next of kin should not delay definitive intervention
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["21"]
Explanation
To calculate the flow rate in gtt/min, you can use the formula: (Volume in mL * Drop factor) / Time in
minutes.
For 1 L of lactated Ringer's IV, which is 1000 mL, to be infused over 12 hours, with an IV administration set that delivers 15 gtt/mL, the calculation would be: (1000 mL * 15 gtt/mL) / (12 hours * 60 minutes/hour).
This simplifies to (15000 gtt) / (720 minutes), which equals approximately 20.83 gtt/min.
Therefore, the nurse should regulate the infusion to 21 gtt/min, rounding to the nearest whole
number.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale
A. Both baked potato with skin and raw carrots are high-fiber foods. The skin of the potato and raw carrots contain significant amounts of fiber, which can aggravate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
B. Whole-grain cereals are high in fiber, which is not suitable for a low-fiber diet recommended for ulcerative colitis.
C. Roasted turkey is a lean protein source and generally suitable for a low-fiber diet. Canned vegetables can vary in fiber content; however, they are typically lower in fiber compared to fresh vegetables. The nurse should verify the specific type of canned vegetables to ensure they are low in fiber.
D. Fresh strawberries are high in fiber and should be avoided on a low-fiber diet.
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