A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is postpartum and interested in information about contraception. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A reason: Thinking about wanting the procedure shows indecision, not consent understanding. Informed consent requires comprehension of the procedure, risks, and benefits, ensuring voluntary agreement. Contemplation alone is incomplete, failing to confirm the client’s grasp of the consent form’s legal purpose.
Choice B reason: Stating that signing indicates permission reflects understanding of informed consent, which documents voluntary agreement after receiving procedure details, risks, and benefits. This aligns with ethical and legal standards, confirming the client’s comprehension of the consent form’s role in authorizing surgery.
Choice C reason: Asking about risks indicates engagement but not consent understanding. It suggests a need for more information, not confirmation of the form’s purpose. While important, it does not reflect comprehension of the consent process as clearly as acknowledging the act of signing.
Choice D reason: Wanting to discuss concerns with the doctor shows the client seeks clarification, not that they understand the consent form’s purpose. It indicates an ongoing process, not confirmation of the form’s role in granting permission, unlike acknowledging the signing’s significance.

Choice A reason: Instructing the client to shower and change clothes is inappropriate, as it may destroy forensic evidence critical for legal proceedings. Evidence preservation is a priority post-sexual assault, and showers are delayed until after forensic examination, making this intervention incorrect and potentially harmful.
Choice B reason: Asking for details about the assault can retraumatize the client and is not the nurse’s role immediately post-assault. Trained forensic examiners or counselors handle such discussions sensitively. This action risks emotional harm and is inappropriate for initial care, making it incorrect.
Choice C reason: Reassuring the client that injuries are not life-threatening may minimize their trauma and emotional distress. The focus should be on emotional support and safety, not downplaying injuries, which may be perceived insensitively. This intervention is inappropriate for trauma-informed care, making it incorrect.
Choice D reason: Limiting staff members providing care reduces the client’s exposure to multiple providers, minimizing retraumatization and ensuring consistency. This trauma-informed approach fosters trust and safety post-sexual assault, aligning with best practices for psychological support, making it the correct intervention.