An 18-year-old client in the emergency department is scheduled for an appendectomy. Although the client's parents advocate for the surgery, the client declines the procedure. Which of the following ethical principles is the nurse displaying by respecting the client's decision?

A. The restraint is attached to the side rails of the bed: Restraints should never be attached to the side rails because moving the rails could cause injury to the client. Restraints must be secured to a stationary part of the bed frame to prevent tightening, which could lead to impaired circulation or nerve damage if the bed position changes.

B. The restraint strap is tied into a knot: Tying the restraint strap into a knot is unsafe because knots are difficult to untie quickly in an emergency. Quick-release ties or slipknots are recommended to ensure the client can be released rapidly if needed, reducing the risk of injury or complications from prolonged restraint.

C. The nurse can insert two fingers under the restraint: Being able to insert two fingers under the restraint indicates that it is properly applied—not too tight to impair circulation, and not too loose to be ineffective. This ensures client safety by allowing adequate blood flow and reducing the risk of skin breakdown or nerve injury.

D. The skin under the restraint is cool and has changed color: Coolness and discoloration under a restraint are signs of impaired circulation and require immediate intervention. These findings are abnormal and suggest that the restraint is too tight, potentially leading to tissue ischemia, nerve damage, or pressure injuries if not promptly addressed.

A. Use humor to decrease tension: Humor may not translate well across cultures and languages, and it can lead to miscommunication or offend the client unintentionally. It is better to maintain a respectful, clear, and professional communication style when using an interpreter.

B. Speak in short sentences: Using short, clear sentences helps the interpreter accurately convey the nurse’s message to the client. It allows for better understanding and avoids overwhelming the interpreter with complex information that could get misinterpreted.

C. Speak in third person: Speaking in third person can cause confusion and distance the nurse from the client. It is best to speak directly to the client using first and second person ("I" and "you") so the interaction feels more personal and respectful.

D. Talk directly to the interpreter: The nurse should always speak directly to the client, maintaining eye contact and body language with the client. The interpreter is there to facilitate communication, not to replace the direct interaction between the nurse and the client.