A newly licensed nurse is obtaining consent for a surgical procedure.
Which action by the newly licensed nurse is most appropriate?

Choice A rationale:

Making sure the consent is signed and in the patient's chart in a timely manner is an important step in the consent process. However, the most appropriate action for the nurse in this situation is to verify the necessity of the surgical procedure before placing the consent in the chart. This is crucial to ensure that the patient fully understands the procedure they are consenting to and that it is medically necessary. Verifying the necessity of the surgical procedure helps in preventing unnecessary procedures, promoting patient safety, and adhering to ethical principles.

Choice B rationale:

Verifying the necessity of the surgical procedure before placing the consent in the chart is the most appropriate action for the newly licensed nurse. This step ensures that the procedure is medically necessary, aligns with the patient's condition, and promotes informed decision-making. By confirming the necessity, the nurse upholds the principle of beneficence, ensuring the patient's well-being, and autonomy, allowing the patient to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Choice C rationale:

Asking a family member to translate the consent into the language the patient understands might be helpful in improving the patient's understanding of the procedure. However, the primary concern in this situation is verifying the necessity of the surgical procedure. While communication is essential, it does not address the core issue of confirming the medical need for the surgery.

Choice D rationale:

Explaining the risks and benefits of the surgical procedure prior to getting a signature is a vital step in the consent process. However, the question specifically asks for the most appropriate action, which is to verify the necessity of the procedure. Explaining the risks and benefits is an important follow-up step after ensuring the procedure's necessity.

Choice A rationale:

Calling the physician to request an antianxiety medication might address the client's anxiety, but it does not directly respond to the client's existential question about God punishing them.

Choice B rationale:

Sharing personal religious beliefs with the client can be inappropriate and may not align with the client's beliefs, potentially causing discomfort or offense.

Choice C rationale:

Sitting quietly with the client and offering caring touch demonstrates empathy, compassion, and presence. It allows the nurse to provide emotional support without imposing personal beliefs or judgments. This approach encourages the client to express their feelings and facilitates a therapeutic nurse-client relationship.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the client about a good worship center nearby does not directly address the client's existential question or provide emotional support. Additionally, the client may not be interested in religious activities at this moment.