A nurse is preparing a client for a cardiac catheterization. Just before the procedure, the client asks the nurse about the risks of the procedure. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A Reason:
Good Samaritan Act is incorrect. The Good Samaritan Act typically provides legal protection to individuals who provide assistance during emergency situations, but it does not specifically address consent for medical treatment. It protects individuals from liability when providing reasonable assistance in emergency situations.
Choice B Reason:
Nonmaleficence is incorrect. Nonmaleficence is an ethical principle that emphasizes the obligation to do no harm. While it guides healthcare professionals in prioritizing patient safety and well-being, it does not provide legal authority to proceed with medical treatment without consent.
Choice C Reason:
Living will is incorrect. A living will be a legal document that outlines an individual's preferences for medical treatment in the event that they are unable to communicate their wishes. However, if the client's living will does not specifically address the circumstances of emergency surgery, it may not apply in this situation.
Choice D Reason:
Implied consent is correct. Implied consent allows healthcare providers to proceed with necessary medical treatment when it is reasonable to assume that the patient would consent if they were able to do so. In emergency situations where a patient is unconscious or unable to provide consent, and efforts to reach family members are unsuccessful, healthcare providers may proceed with treatment based on the principle of implied consent to prevent further harm or loss of life.

Choice A Reason:
Stating that the facility is unable to release the records, may not be accurate. Facilities typically have processes in place for releasing medical records upon request, although they may require written authorization.
Choice B Reason:
"You must submit a written request before you can receive a copy." This statement is correct. In most healthcare facilities, patients are required to submit a written request to obtain copies of their medical records. This process ensures that proper documentation is maintained and helps protect patient confidentiality and privacy. Additionally, providing medical records without proper authorization could violate healthcare privacy laws such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).
Choice C Reason:
Asking about the client's intentions with the medical record, is not appropriate as it could be seen as intrusive. Patients have the right to access their medical records for various purposes, and their intentions may not be relevant to fulfilling the request.
Choice D Reason:
Agreeing to make a copy of the medical records right away, is not the correct response without proper authorization. Making copies of medical records without following established procedures could lead to legal and ethical issues.