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A nurse is admitting a client who has been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and is scheduled for surgery. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A.

Inform the client they cannot refuse the surgery once the consent form has been signed.

B.

Explain the risks of the surgery to the client.

C.

Ensure the client has advance directives on file.

D.

Ask the client if they wish to be resuscitated in the event they stop breathing.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Inform the client they cannot refuse the surgery once the consent form has been signed. A client has the right to refuse treatment at any time, even after signing a consent form.
B. Explain the risks of the surgery to the client. The provider is responsible for explaining the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure. The nurse's role is to witness consent and ensure the client understands.
C. Ensure the client has advance directives on file. Since the client has a serious, life-threatening illness (stage 4 cancer) and is undergoing surgery, it is important to verify whether they have advance directives, such as a living will or durable power of attorney for healthcare. These documents ensure that their wishes regarding medical treatment are followed.
D. Ask the client if they wish to be resuscitated in the event they stop breathing. While this is an important conversation, it is typically initiated by the provider. The nurse should confirm whether the client has a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order or advance directives in place.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Laboratory results Lab results are diagnostic data, not part of the health history. They are obtained separately through testing.
B. Physical examination findings The physical exam is a separate component of the assessment and is not included in the health history, which focuses on subjective data.
C. Health habits The health history includes subjective data provided by the client, such as dietary habits, exercise routine, smoking, alcohol use, sleep patterns, and medication use. This information helps the nurse understand the client’s lifestyle and risk factors.
D. Observed client behaviors While a nurse may take note of behaviors, the health history is based on the client’s self-reported information, not observations.

Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"A"}

Explanation

The first client the nurse should assess is Client 3 (Pulmonary Edema) followed by Client 1 (Hip Fracture).

Rationale:

Client 3 (Pulmonary Edema) – Highest Priority:

    1. Pulmonary edema is a life-threatening condition that can impair oxygenation.
    2. The client has a history of congestive heart failure (CHF) and a chest x-ray confirming pulmonary edema.
    3. Immediate assessment is required to evaluate for respiratory distress, oxygenation status, and potential need for diuretics or oxygen therapy.

Client 1 (Hip Fracture) – Second Priority:

    1. The x-ray confirms a fractured femoral neck, which can cause severe pain, bleeding, and immobility.
    2. The nurse must assess for circulation, sensation, and movement (CSM) of the affected limb and manage pain.
    3. While this is urgent, it is not as immediately life-threatening as pulmonary edema.

Priority Order (Using ABCs & Maslow’s Hierarchy):

  1. Client 3 – Pulmonary Edema (Airway/Breathing concern)
    2. Client 1 – Hip Fracture (Risk for bleeding, pain, mobility issues)
    3. Client 4 – Low Potassium (Risk for cardiac arrhythmias, needs electrolyte management)
    4. Client 6 – Poor Diabetes Control (HbA1c 9%, requires education & glucose monitoring)
    5. Client 5 – Malnutrition (Prealbumin 12 mg/dL, needs nutrition support for wound healing)
    6. Client 2 – Hyperlipidemia (Not an immediate concern, requires long-term management)

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