A person with anemia is prescribed erythropoietin subcutaneously. The nurse knows that erythropoietin:

This is a responsibility of the nurse in the process of informed consent, which is the patient’s choice to have a treatment or procedure based on their full understanding of its benefits, risks, and alternatives. The nurse should provide written materials in the client’s spoken language, when possible, and verify that the client comprehends and consents to the care and procedures.

Choice A is wrong because confirming that the client is competent to sign for the procedure is not a responsibility of the nurse, but of the health professional who directs the care. The nurse can only obtain consent when initiating care or reviewing consent before providing care ordered by another health professional.

Choice B is wrong because discussing the risks of the procedure with the client is not a responsibility of the nurse, but of the health professional who directs the care. The nurse can only inform the client about what will occur during the procedure and answer any questions they may have.

Choice D is wrong because explaining alternatives to the procedure to the client is not a responsibility of the nurse, but of the health professional who directs the care. The nurse can only inform the client about what will occur during the procedure and answer any questions they may have.

Fluid volume excess is wrong because appendicitis does not cause fluid retention or overload. It may cause fluid loss due to vomiting, fever, or rupture of the appendix. Therefore, a more appropriate nursing diagnosis would be the risk for deficient fluid volume.

Choice B. Risk for infection is correct because appendicitis is an inflammatory condition that can lead to bacterial infection, especially if the appendix ruptures and causes peritonitis or abscess formation.

Choice C. Ineffective thermoregulation is correct because appendicitis can cause fever due to inflammation and infection.

Choice D. Pain is correct because appendicitis causes acute abdominal pain that usually starts in the periumbilical area and then localizes to the right lower quadrant. The pain may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and rebound tenderness.