ATI RN Mental Health 2019 NGN
ATI RN Mental Health 2019 NGN ( 63 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who was involuntarily committed and is scheduled to receive electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The client refuses the treatment and will not discuss why with the health care team. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Document the client's refusal of the treatment in the medical record. Respecting a client's autonomy is crucial, even in situations of involuntary commitment. The client has the right to refuse treatment, and this refusal should be thoroughly documented in the medical record. This ensures that the healthcare team is aware of the client's decision and can make informed decisions about their care.
Tell the client he cannot refuse the treatment because he was involuntarily committed. This choice disregards the client's right to make decisions about their own treatment. Involuntary commitment does not negate a person's right to refuse specific treatments, especially if they have the capacity to make informed decisions.
Inform the client that ECT does not require client consent. This statement is incorrect. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) typically requires informed consent, even in cases of involuntary commitment. Clients have the right to be informed about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of any treatment and to provide or withhold consent.
Ask the client's family to encourage the client to receive ECT. While involving the client's family can be important for support, it does not bypass the client's autonomy or consent. Encouragement should not override the client's right to refuse treatment. The decision ultimately rests with the client, not their family.