The physician has discussed the need for surgery with a client and has obtained informed consent. The nurse determines that the client does not understand the risks and benefits of the procedure. What is the nurse's best action?

A. This action could pose a significant liability risk as it violates the standard of care, which includes providing thorough and accurate handoff communication to ensure continuity of care. Failing to provide a report before transferring a client to ICU could lead to miscommunication, errors in treatment, and compromised patient safety.

C. Documenting vital signs taken by another nurse is generally acceptable as long as the nurse ensures the accuracy of the information and documents according to institutional policies and standards. However, if the nurse knowingly documents false or inaccurate vital signs, it could pose a liability risk.
E. Using equipment with a frayed cord poses a significant liability risk as it could lead to electrical hazards, equipment malfunction, or patient injury. Nurses have a duty to ensure the safety and integrity of equipment used in patient care and should promptly report any defects or safety concerns to prevent harm to patients.
B. Completing the admission assessment is a standard nursing responsibility and is not inherently a liability risk. However, liability could arise if the assessment is incomplete, inaccurate, or not documented appropriately, leading to errors in care or failure to identify and address the client's needs

D. Calling the physician to request an order for pain medication is a routine nursing responsibility and is not inherently a liability risk. However, liability could arise if the nurse fails to communicate important information about the client's condition or medication history, resulting in inappropriate or unsafe prescribing practices.

B. Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a discipline focused on the preservation, enhancement, or restoration of movement and physical function. Physical therapists assess and treat individuals with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and other conditions to improve mobility, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination through therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, and functional training.
A. Respiratory therapy focuses on the assessment, treatment, and management of patients with respiratory and cardiopulmonary disorders. Respiratory therapists specialize in providing interventions such as oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, and pulmonary rehabilitation to optimize respiratory function and improve breathing.
C. Speech therapy and language pathology, also known as speech-language pathology (SLP), is a discipline that focuses on the assessment and treatment of communication disorders, swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), and cognitive-communication impairments. Speech-language pathologists assess and treat individuals with speech sound disorders, language delays, voice disorders, fluency disorders (stuttering), and communication difficulties associated with neurological conditions or injuries.
D. Occupational therapy is a discipline focused on promoting health and well-being through meaningful engagement in daily activities (occupations). Occupational therapists assess and treat individuals of all ages who are experiencing physical, cognitive, psychosocial, or sensory impairments that affect their ability to participate in activities of daily living (ADLs), work, leisure, education, and social participation. Occupational therapy interventions aim to enhance independence, functional performance, and quality of life.