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?
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.
Prepare the client for surgery.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Contacting the ethics committee for guidance is not important in an emergency situation since it may result in delays putting the patient in danger.
B. Keeping the client stable is important, but obtaining consent from the appropriate channels is necessary before proceeding with surgery.
C. The surgeon cannot provide consent on behalf of the client.
D. The nurse should prepare the client for surgery. This is based on the legal principle of implied consent in emergency situations where immediate action is necessary to preserve life or prevent significant harm. Generally, if the client's life is in danger and urgent treatment is necessary, consent may be implied on the basis that the treatment is in the best interest of the client. The nurse's priority is to ensure the client's stability and prepare them for surgery while the medical team takes the necessary steps to proceed with the treatment in the absence of explicit consent.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The client should be repositioned at least every 2 hr, or more frequently if indicated by the client's condition or risk assessment.
B. The nurse should avoid elevating the head of the client's bed more than 30°, unless contraindicated, to reduce shearing forces on the sacrum and heels.
C. Massaging bony prominences can increase the risk of pressure injuries by causing friction and shearing forces on the skin.
D. The nurse should use pressure-relieving devices, such as foam pads, pillows, or air mattresses, to protect the client's heels and other areas from direct contact with the mattress.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While elevated blood pressure may be a concern, frequent coughing while eating indicates a risk of aspiration, which is a more immediate priority.
B. Frequent coughing while eating suggests a risk of aspiration, which can lead to serious respiratory complications such as pneumonia.
C. Leaning to the left side while sitting may indicate weakness or postural instability but is not as immediately concerning as a risk of aspiration.
D. Low food intake is a concern but does not present an immediate risk to the client's safety compared to the risk of aspiration.
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