The nurse is caring for a diabetic patient in renal failure who is in metabolic acidosis. Which laboratory findings are consistent with metabolic acidosis?

A. Alcohol can affect blood clotting mechanisms and increase the risk of bleeding. Chronic alcohol consumption is associated with liver dysfunction, which impairs the production of clotting factors, leading to an increased risk of bleeding during and after surgery.
B. Alcohol consumption does not decrease the risk of postoperative infection. In fact, alcohol use, especially if it’s chronic, can impair the immune system and delay wound healing, potentially increasing the risk of postoperative infections.
C. Alcohol does not enhance the effectiveness of anesthesia; rather, it can complicate anesthesia management. Alcohol can interact with anesthetic agents, potentially altering their effects, leading to unpredictable outcomes.
D. Alcohol does not reduce the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). In fact, alcohol use can exacerbate nausea and vomiting, particularly when combined with anesthetic agents.

A. Explaining the risks and benefits of the procedure is generally the responsibility of the surgeon or the healthcare provider who will perform the procedure. They are in the best position to provide detailed and specific information about the procedure, including potential complications and benefits.
B. Similar to explaining the risks and benefits, discussing alternatives is usually done by the surgeon or the provider. The nurse should ensure that the client is aware that alternatives are available and that this information has been provided by the appropriate medical professional.
C. It is the responsibility of the surgeon or the healthcare provider to obtain informed consent. However, the nurse should confirm that the consent process has been completed. This means ensuring that the consent form is signed and that the client has been properly informed. While the nurse does not obtain consent, they verify that it has been done correctly.
D. Describing the consequences of not undergoing the surgery is part of the informed consent process and is generally the responsibility of the surgeon. The nurse should ensure that this information has been communicated to the client by the appropriate provider.
E. The nurse often acts as a witness to the client’s signature on the consent form. This involves confirming that the client has signed the form voluntarily and after being fully informed. The nurse’s role in this process is to ensure the proper documentation and verification that the consent has been given.