A nurse is developing a plan of care for a patient who practices Islam. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan?

Choice A rationale

The patient has the right to withdraw their informed consent at any time, even after signing the consent form. This is a fundamental principle of patient autonomy and respect for the individual’s rights. The nurse should respect the patient’s decision and notify the surgeon that the patient wishes to withdraw informed consent for the procedure. This allows the healthcare team to reassess the situation, provide further information if necessary, and make appropriate adjustments to the care plan.

Choice B rationale

While informing the surgical team to cancel the surgery might be a subsequent step, it is not the immediate action the nurse should take. The first action should be to respect the patient’s autonomy and communicate their decision to the surgeon.

Choice C rationale

Proceeding with the preparation of the patient for the surgical procedure against their expressed wishes would be a violation of the patient’s rights. It is essential to respect the patient’s autonomy and their right to make decisions about their own healthcare.

Choice D rationale

Reminding the patient that a signed informed consent form is a legally binding document is incorrect. Informed consent is not a contract, and the patient has the right to withdraw consent at any time. The purpose of informed consent is to ensure that the patient understands the procedure, its risks and benefits, and alternatives, and makes an informed decision.

Choice A rationale

Before administering digoxin, it is crucial to measure the patient’s apical pulse. Digoxin affects the heart rate, and a low pulse could indicate that the dose needs to be adjusted.

Choice B rationale

Offering a light snack is not specifically required before administering digoxin.

Choice C rationale

While it’s always important to monitor a patient’s blood pressure, it’s not specifically required before administering digoxin.

Choice D rationale

Weighing the patient is not specifically required before administering digoxin.