A nurse is caring for an adolescent who lives on their own and is refusing treatment. Which of the following statements should the nurse make? You can only refuse treatment for STI testing.

Choice A reason:

Brown in color. The rationale for this choice is that a partial-thickness burn involves damage to the epidermis and the dermis but not the full thickness of the skin. It typically presents with redness, swelling, and blisters. While the burned area may have some discoloration, it is more likely to be red or pink rather than brown. Brown coloration would suggest a deeper burn involving the full thickness of the skin and potentially underlying structures.

Choice B reason:

Leathery appearance. This choice is not expected in a partial-thickness burn. A leathery appearance is characteristic of a full-thickness (third-degree) burn, which involves the destruction of the epidermis, dermis, and potentially deeper tissues. In a partial-thickness burn, the skin may appear red, swollen, and blistered, but it should not have a leathery texture.

Choice C reason:

Visible ligaments. This choice is not indicative of a partial-thickness burn either. Partial- thickness burns primarily affect the epidermis and dermis, but they do not extend deep enough to expose ligaments or other structures below the skin. Visible ligaments would suggest a full-thickness burn or an injury that extends beyond the skin layers.

Choice D reason:

Blister formation. This is the correct choice. Blister formation is a common clinical manifestation of a partial-thickness burn. The injury causes fluid accumulation between the layers of the skin (epidermis and dermis), leading to the formation of blisters. The blisters may be filled with clear fluid and are usually painful and sensitive to touch.

Choice A reason:

The nurse should inform the adolescent of their right to refuse treatment because respecting the patient's autonomy and right to make their own decisions about their healthcare is essential. This is especially true for an adolescent who is living on their own, as they have the legal capacity to make their medical decisions independently.

Choice B reason:

This statement is incorrect because, in most jurisdictions, adolescents who live on their own are considered emancipated minors, meaning they have the legal right to make their medical decisions without involving a parent or guardian. Requiring a parent or guardian's consent would not be applicable in this situation.

Choice C reason:

This statement is incorrect and irrelevant to the situation. Marriage status does not determine an individual's ability to make their own health care decisions. Regardless of marital status, an adolescent living on their own has the right to make their medical choices.

Choice D reason:

This is the correct choice. The nurse should emphasize the adolescent's right to refuse treatment if they wish to do so. It is crucial to respect their autonomy and ensure that they are fully informed about the potential consequences of their decision. However, the nurse should also provide relevant information about the treatment's benefits and risks to help the patient make an informed decision.