Which situation would be appropriate to refer to the hospital ethics committee?
Parents are shocked when their child is diagnosed with a malignant bone tumor. The orthopedic surgeon discusses the options of limb amputation and a limb-salvage procedure. The parents are asked to consider each option.
A child in end-stage renal failure is placed on the renal transplant list. The parents are asked to sign permission for surgery after a cadaver kidney is located. One parent is out of town and gives telephone consent.
After initial therapies have failed, a child with leukemia is evaluated for a new cancer protocol. The child, age 8 years, gives assent for the new treatment, and his parents give their consent.
The physician recommends that a young child be taken off the ventilator. The parents, who are divorced and have joint custody of the child, have differing views about whether to discontinue the ventilator.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This situation does not require the involvement of the hospital ethics committee, as the parents are not refusing or requesting any treatment that is contrary to the standard of care. The surgeon is providing them with information and options, and the parents are free to make their own decision.
Choice B reason: This situation does not involve any ethical dilemma, as the parents are giving their permission for the surgery, and the telephone consent is legally valid. The hospital ethics committee is not needed to resolve any conflict or uncertainty.
Choice C reason: This situation is an example of ethical research involving children, as the child is giving assent and the parents are giving consent for the new protocol. The hospital ethics committee is not required to intervene, as the research protocol has already been approved by the institutional review board.
Choice D reason: This situation is an appropriate case for the hospital ethics committee, as it involves a life-and-death decision that affects the child's best interests and the parents' rights. The hospital ethics committee can help to mediate the conflict, provide guidance, and facilitate a resolution.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This response is not the priority action because dehydration is not an immediate threat to the child's life. The nurse should first rule out any signs of hemorrhage, which is a common complication of tonsillectomy.
Choice B reason: This response is not the priority action because pain medication may mask the symptoms of bleeding, such as increased swallowing or restlessness. The nurse should first assess the child for any signs of hemorrhage, and then administer pain medication as needed.
Choice C reason: This response is not the priority action because cherry popsicles may irritate the throat and cause bleeding. The nurse should first assess the child for any signs of hemorrhage, and then offer clear fluids or ice chips to the child.
Choice D reason: This response is the priority action because post-op bleeding is a serious and potentially fatal complication of tonsillectomy. The nurse should assess the operative site for any signs of bleeding, such as fresh blood, clots, or increased swallowing. The nurse should also monitor the child's vital signs, oxygen saturation, and level of consciousness. If bleeding is suspected, the nurse should notify the physician immediately and prepare for emergency interventions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not appropriate because it denies the child's reality and implies that having two daddies is not normal. It may also hurt the child's feelings and make them feel ashamed of their family.
Choice B reason: This is not appropriate because it sounds judgmental and curious about the child's family structure. It may also make the child feel uncomfortable and different from other children.
Choice C reason: This is appropriate because it accepts the child's statement and shows respect for their family. It also focuses on the child's immediate need and comfort.
Choice D reason: This is not appropriate because it sounds sarcastic and dismissive of the child's family. It may also make the child feel angry and defensive.
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