A nurse working in the emergency department is assessing several clients. Which of the following clients is the highest priority?

Choice A reason: The client must understand the risks and benefits of the proposed treatment is not information that the nurse should include in the teaching about implied consent. This is information that the nurse should include in the teaching about informed consent, which is a type of consent that requires the client's written or verbal agreement after receiving adequate information about the treatment.

Choice B reason: The nurse's signature indicates that they witnessed the client's signature is not information that the nurse should include in the teaching about implied consent. This is information that the nurse should include in the teaching about informed consent, which is a type of consent that requires the client's written or verbal agreement after receiving adequate information about the treatment.

Choice C reason: Consent can be verbal or written is not information that the nurse should include in the teaching about implied consent. This is information that the nurse should include in the teaching about informed consent, which is a type of consent that requires the client's written or verbal agreement after receiving adequate information about the treatment.

Choice D reason: Nonverbal behavior indicates agreement is information that the nurse should include in the teaching about implied consent. This is a type of consent that does not require the client's written or verbal agreement, but is based on the client's actions or circumstances. For example, if the client holds out their arm for a blood pressure measurement, they are giving implied consent for the procedure.

Choice A reason: Purchasing primary tubing for IV therapy is not a cost-effective client care task, as it involves spending money on supplies that may not be necessary or appropriate for every client. The nurse should recommend using secondary tubing or changing the primary tubing according to the facility's policy and the client's condition.

Choice B reason: Implementing a fall prevention program is a cost-effective client care task, as it can prevent injuries, complications, and lawsuits that can result from client falls. The nurse should recommend using evidence-based strategies, such as assessing the client's fall risk, providing appropriate supervision and assistance, and using safety devices and alarms.

Choice C reason: Providing staff education on infection control is not a cost-effective client care task, as it involves investing time and resources on training that may not have a direct impact on the client's outcomes. The nurse should recommend following the standard precautions and the facility's protocol for infection prevention and control.

Choice D reason: Hiring a wound care specialist is not a cost-effective client care task, as it involves paying for an additional staff member who may not be needed or utilized for every client. The nurse should recommend providing wound care according to the provider's orders and the facility's guidelines, and consulting a wound care specialist only when necessary.