A new graduate nurse asks their manager for guidance on how to respond to a patient who refuses to sign a surgical consent form. The patient says that she won’t sign because she wishes to explore other options. Which of the following responses made by the manager are most appropriate? (Select all that apply)
“The patient must consent because the procedure is necessary for survival.”
“Consent should not be forced.”
“If the surgery is life-saving, we can proceed regardless of what the patient says.”
“Sometimes patients refuse because they are anxious. Give them a sedative, then ask again.”
“The patient has every right to refuse.”
Correct Answer : B,E
Choice A Reason:
“The patient must consent because the procedure is necessary for survival.” This statement is incorrect because it implies that the necessity of the procedure overrides the patient’s autonomy. Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement in healthcare. Patients have the right to make their own decisions about their treatment, even if refusing treatment may result in harm or death. Forcing consent undermines patient autonomy and can lead to legal and ethical issues.
Choice B Reason:
“Consent should not be forced.” This statement is correct and aligns with the principles of patient autonomy and informed consent. Forcing a patient to consent to a procedure violates their rights and can lead to ethical and legal complications. Healthcare providers must respect the patient’s decision, provide all necessary information, and support them in making an informed choice.
Choice C Reason:
“If the surgery is life-saving, we can proceed regardless of what the patient says.” This statement is incorrect. Even in life-saving situations, patients have the right to refuse treatment. There are very few exceptions to this rule, such as when a patient is deemed legally incompetent to make decisions. In such cases, a legal guardian or power of attorney may be involved. However, competent patients retain the right to refuse any medical intervention.
Choice D Reason:
“Sometimes patients refuse because they are anxious. Give them a sedative, then ask again.” This statement is inappropriate and unethical. Administering a sedative to obtain consent can be seen as coercive and does not respect the patient’s autonomy. It is important to address the patient’s concerns and anxiety through communication and support, rather than using medication to influence their decision.
Choice E Reason:
“The patient has every right to refuse.” This statement is correct and reflects the ethical principle of respect for patient autonomy. Patients have the right to make their own healthcare decisions, including the right to refuse treatment. Healthcare providers should ensure that patients are fully informed about their options and the potential consequences of their decisions, but ultimately, the decision rests with the patient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The growing proportion of the population that will surpass the age of 65 is a significant demographic shift with substantial implications for future healthcare delivery systems. As the population ages, there will be an increased demand for healthcare services, particularly for chronic disease management, long-term care, and geriatric care. This shift will require healthcare systems to adapt by expanding services, increasing the workforce specialized in geriatric care, and developing new models of care to meet the needs of an aging population.
Choice B Reason:
Rising incidents of workplace violence are a serious concern in healthcare settings, impacting the safety and well-being of healthcare workers. However, this issue, while critical, does not represent a demographic shift. Addressing workplace violence involves implementing safety protocols, training staff, and creating a supportive work environment. It is an operational challenge rather than a demographic one.
Choice C Reason:
Increases in healthcare expenses are a major challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Rising costs can strain resources and limit access to care. However, this issue is more related to economic and policy factors rather than a demographic shift. Strategies to manage healthcare expenses include cost-containment measures, value-based care models, and efficient resource utilization.
Choice D Reason:
Changes in staffing patterns are important for adapting to evolving healthcare needs. These changes can include shifts in the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals, the integration of new technologies, and the development of interdisciplinary teams. While staffing patterns are crucial for effective healthcare delivery, they are influenced by demographic shifts rather than being a demographic shift themselves.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Informatics fundamentally revolves around the management and use of data, information, and knowledge. These three components form the core of informatics, enabling healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and improve patient outcomes. Data refers to raw facts and figures, information is processed data that is meaningful, and knowledge is the application of information to make decisions. This triad is essential for effective informatics practice in nursing, as it supports clinical decision-making and enhances the quality of care.
Choice B Reason:
While decision making, data gathering, and reporting are important aspects of informatics, they are not the fundamental principles. These activities are outcomes of effectively managing data, information, and knowledge. Decision making relies on the availability of accurate information and knowledge, which are derived from well-managed data. Therefore, these activities are secondary to the core principles of data, information, and knowledge.
Choice C Reason:
Wireless technology, voice recognition, and handheld devices are tools used in informatics but are not the fundamental principles. These technologies facilitate the collection, processing, and dissemination of data, information, and knowledge. They enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of informatics practices but do not constitute the core principles themselves. The focus should be on the underlying principles that these technologies support.
Choice D Reason:
Hardware, software, and printers are components of the technological infrastructure used in informatics. While essential for implementing informatics solutions, they are not the fundamental principles. These elements provide the necessary tools and platforms for managing data, information, and knowledge but are not the core concepts of informatics. The principles of data, information, and knowledge are what drive the effective use of these technologies.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.