The nurse in the trauma unit has received a report on a client who has multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?

Choice A rationale:

It's essential to ensure that the client fully understands the surgical procedure and its implications before signing the informed consent form. If the client expresses confusion or lack of understanding, the nurse should involve the surgeon to address the concerns directly. The surgeon is the most appropriate person to provide comprehensive information about the procedure, potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. This promotes patient autonomy and informed decision-making, aligning with ethical principles.

Choice B rationale:

While educating the client about the procedure is important, it's not the nurse's role to provide detailed explanations of surgical procedures. Additionally, the surgeon possesses the necessary expertise to explain medical procedures accurately. Relying on the surgeon for this explanation maintains professional boundaries and ensures accurate information dissemination.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to reread the consent form is insufficient if the client did not initially understand the explanation. The consent form might contain complex medical language, and the client might need direct communication with the surgeon to address specific concerns. Merely re-reading the form might not alleviate the client's confusion.

Choice D rationale:

Telling the client that the surgeon will explain the procedure in the operating room is inappropriate. The client's concerns should be addressed promptly, and the explanation should occur before the surgery, allowing the client to make an informed decision. Operating rooms are not the appropriate setting for obtaining informed consent.

Choice A rationale:

Applying petroleum jelly to the nares is not necessary in this situation. Oxygen therapy through a nasal cannula aims to deliver oxygen to the client's respiratory system. Applying petroleum jelly might interfere with the oxygen delivery and is not a standard practice.

Choice B rationale:

Removing the nasal cannula while the client eats reduces the oxygen supply during a time when the body's oxygen demand might increase due to the digestive process. It's important to maintain consistent oxygen therapy, even during meals.

Choice C rationale:

Attaching a humidifier bottle to the base of the flow meter is not necessary for oxygen therapy at 5 L/min via nasal cannula. Humidification is usually needed at higher oxygen flow rates to prevent drying of the mucous membranes.

Choice D rationale:

Securing the oxygen tubing to the bed sheet near the client's head is the correct action. This ensures that the tubing is not pulled or tugged during movement, maintaining a steady flow of oxygen. Placing it near the client's head prevents kinking or tangling of the tubing and allows the client to move without disrupting the therapy.