A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who is unconscious and requires surgery. There is no one available to give consent for the treatment. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Prepare the client for surgery.
Contact the facility's ethics committee for guidance.
Keep the client stable until a family member arrives to give consent.
Obtain consent from the surgeon.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Prepare the client for surgery: In emergency situations, if immediate intervention is required to save the client’s life or prevent significant harm, the principle of implied consent may apply. This means that if the client is unconscious and immediate treatment is necessary, healthcare providers may proceed with treatment under the assumption that the client would consent if able. However, this should be done in accordance with facility policies and legal guidelines.
B. Contact the facility's ethics committee for guidance: Contacting the ethics committee can be helpful for guidance on how to handle consent issues in complex situations, but it might not provide a timely solution for immediate emergency situations.
C. Keep the client stable until a family member arrives to give consent: While stabilizing the client's condition is important, waiting for a family member to arrive to give consent may not be feasible in emergency situations where immediate treatment is necessary. The nurse should seek guidance from appropriate channels to determine the best course of action.
D. Obtain consent from the surgeon: Surgeons do not have the authority to provide consent for treatment on behalf of a client who is unconscious. Consent must come from a legally authorized decision-maker, such as the client themselves if they have previously provided informed consent, or a designated healthcare proxy.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Move items in the room away from the client: During a seizure, the client may have uncontrolled movements that could cause them to hit nearby objects and potentially injure themselves. Moving items away from the client helps create a safer environment and reduces the risk of injury from contact with objects.
B. Loosen the client's clothing: Seizures can lead to muscle contractions and movements that might constrict the client's clothing, particularly around the neck or chest area. Loosening the client's clothing helps ensure that their breathing is not restricted during the seizure.
C. Turn the client onto their side: Turning the client onto their side is an important step for airway protection. During a seizure, there is a risk of saliva or vomit obstructing the airway, which can lead to aspiration. Turning the client onto their side helps prevent aspiration by allowing any fluids to drain out safely and maintaining an open airway.
D. Help the client lie on the floor: If the client is seated in a chair during a seizure, it's safer to assist them in lying on the floor. This action prevents the client from falling out of the chair and potentially sustaining injuries from the fall. Once on the floor, the nurse can continue to monitor the client and provide appropriate care and support.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will move your joints to the point of mild pain." - This statement is incorrect. Passive ROM exercises should not be performed to the point of causing pain. Pain during passive ROM exercises can indicate that the movement is too forceful or beyond the client's range of motion, which can lead to injury or discomfort.
B. "I will repeat these movements 3 to 5 times." - This statement is generally correct. Passive ROM exercises are typically repeated several times during each session to help maintain joint mobility and prevent contractures. The specific number of repetitions can vary based on the client's needs and tolerance.
C. "I will move your joints quickly." - This statement is incorrect. Passive ROM exercises should be performed slowly and gently to avoid causing discomfort or injury to the client. Slow movements allow for better control and precision, ensuring that the joints are moved through their full range of motion without undue force.
D. "These movements will be performed once per day." - This statement is incorrect. Passive ROM exercises are usually performed multiple times throughout the day, especially for clients with decreased mobility. Regular and frequent sessions help prevent stiffness, maintain flexibility, and promote circulation in the joints.
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