A nurse is admitting a client to the medical-surgical unit.
The Patient Self-Determination Act requires the nurse to perform which of the following actions during the admission process?

Choice A rationale:

Fidelity refers to the principle of being loyal, faithful, and keeping promises. It does not specifically relate to providing accurate information about treatment effects. In this scenario, the nurse is discussing the potential adverse effects of a treatment, which falls under the domain of providing accurate and truthful information to the client.

Choice B rationale:

Beneficence is the ethical principle of doing good and promoting the well-being of the patient. While educating the client about potential adverse effects is a form of beneficence, the specific principle demonstrated in this scenario is veracity, which is the duty to tell the truth. The nurse is being truthful about the potential side effect (lightheadedness) while clarifying that it should not affect memory.

Choice C rationale:

Veracity is the ethical principle of truth-telling. In this scenario, the nurse is demonstrating veracity by providing honest and accurate information to the client about the potential adverse effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation. By being truthful, the nurse upholds the ethical principle of veracity.

Choice D rationale:

Autonomy refers to the principle of respecting the patient's right to make decisions about their own healthcare. While respecting autonomy is important, the nurse's action in this scenario specifically pertains to providing accurate information (veracity) rather than solely focusing on the client's decision-making autonomy.

- A. Incorrect. The lithotomy position is not appropriate for this procedure, as it can cause discomfort and embarrassment to the client. The nurse should place the client in a left lateral Sims' position with the right knee flexed for better access to the rectum and to reduce pressure on the abdominal organs.

- B. Incorrect. The nurse should avoid eliciting a vagal response, as it can cause bradycardia, hypotension, and syncope in some clients. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs and stop the procedure if signs of vagal stimulation occur.

- C. Incorrect. Oral bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that can cause abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance. It is not indicated for fecal impaction, as it can worsen the condition by increasing the bulk and hardness of the stool. The nurse should administer an enema or a stool softener before attempting digital evacuation.

- D. Correct. The nurse should insert a lubricated gloved finger and advance along the rectal wall, breaking up the stool and removing it in small pieces. The nurse should use gentle pressure and avoid injuring the rectal mucosa. The nurse should also explain the procedure to the client and obtain informed consent before performing it.