A 16-year-old boy injured in a motorcycle accident is unconscious and cannot sign the emergency surgical consent form; no family members can be located. The nurse anticipates that:
the opinion of a second surgeon is sought regarding the necessity of the surgery.
the surgeon will write a detailed note about the need for surgery and a registered nurse will then sign the consent.
the hospital social worker can sign the permit.
the hospital attorney must authorize the surgery and sign the consent form.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The opinion of a second surgeon is sought regarding the necessity of the surgery. This is an appropriate course of action when consent cannot be obtained from the patient or family, especially in emergency situations to ensure the necessity of surgery.
B. The surgeon will write a detailed note about the need for surgery and a registered nurse will then sign the consent. RNs do not have the legal authority to sign surgical consent forms, which should be signed by a legal guardian or the healthcare provider in emergencies when appropriate.
C. The hospital social worker can sign the permit. Social workers do not have the authority to sign consent forms. Consent must typically come from a legally authorized individual.
D. The hospital attorney must authorize the surgery and sign the consent form. The hospital attorney is not typically involved in emergency decision-making about surgery unless there are significant legal concerns, which is not the case in this scenario.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Nausea and vomiting. Nausea and vomiting can occur after surgery due to anesthesia and other factors. However, it is more common in patients of all ages who undergo certain types of surgery. Though these groups may be more susceptible, this is not the most specific risk.
B. Delayed healing. Both very young and older adult patients are at higher risk for delayed healing. In the very young, the immune system and cell regeneration processes are still developing, while in older adults, decreased circulation, chronic conditions, and slower cellular regeneration can impair wound healing.
C. Anorexia. Anorexia is not specific to surgical patients. While appetite loss can occur postoperatively, it is not as universally problematic in young or older surgical patients as delayed healing.
D. Hydration issues. Hydration issues can occur in all patients, especially following surgery, but they are particularly critical for the very young (due to smaller body mass and high fluid turnover) and the elderly (due to decreased kidney function and total body water). However, this is not as universally prevalent as delayed healing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Circulating nurse: The circulating nurse does not obtain the surgical consent. Their role is to assist in the operating room by managing supplies, documentation, and ensuring the safety of the environment.
B. Admitting department: The admitting department is involved in the patient’s admission process but does not obtain surgical consent.
C. Scrub tech: The scrub tech assists during surgery but does not obtain surgical consent. Their role is focused on sterile technique and assisting with instruments.
D. Surgeon: The surgeon is the one responsible for obtaining the patient's informed consent for surgery, ensuring that the patient understands the procedure, risks, and benefits.
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