A nurse manager is discussing critical pathway use during a staff meeting. Which of the following information should the nurse manager include as an outcome of critical pathway use?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because the Good Samaritan Act is a law that protects health care providers and other individuals from legal liability when they provide emergency care to someone who is injured or ill outside of a health care facility. The act does not apply to the staff in the emergency department, who are expected to follow the standards of care and obtain consent for treatment.

Choice B reason: This is the correct choice because implied consent is a type of consent that is assumed when a client is unable to give verbal or written consent due to their condition, and the treatment is necessary to save their life or prevent further harm. The staff can proceed with emergency surgery based on implied consent, as the client is unconscious and has extensive internal injuries that require immediate intervention.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct choice because a living will is a document that expresses a client's wishes regarding their end-of-life care, such as whether they want to receive life-sustaining treatments or not. A living will does not apply to the client in this scenario, who is not terminally ill or in a persistent vegetative state, and who may recover from their injuries with surgery.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct choice because nonmaleficence is an ethical principle that means to do no harm or prevent harm to the client. Nonmaleficence does not permit the staff to proceed with emergency surgery, as it does not override the need for consent. The staff should also consider the principle of beneficence, which means to do good or promote the well-being of the client.

Choice A reason: This statement is correct, as hospice care provides comprehensive and compassionate care for clients who have a life expectancy of six months or less. Hospice care involves a team of health care professionals, such as physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers, who address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the client and their family.

Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospice care is not intended for clients at various stages of chronic illness. Hospice care is only for clients who are terminally ill and have decided to forego curative or aggressive treatments.

Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospice care does not prolong the life expectancy of clients who are terminally ill. Hospice care focuses on improving the quality of life and comfort of the client, not on extending their life span.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospital access is still available for clients who are in hospice care. Hospice care can be provided in various settings, such as the client's home, a hospice facility, a nursing home, or a hospital. Clients who are in hospice care can still be admitted to the hospital if they need acute care or symptom management.