A nurse is preparing to initiate pain management interventions for a child.
Which statement aligns with legal considerations related to informed consent?

Choice A rationale:

This statement is not in line with ethical principles.

Administering analgesics regardless of the child's pain level may not be in the child's best interest and can lead to overmedication and potential harm.

Choice B rationale:

Withholding analgesics solely based on the nurse's belief is not an ethical approach.

Pain management decisions should be based on the child's pain assessment and needs, not the nurse's personal judgment.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct answer.

Assessing the child's pain level and administering analgesics accordingly is the ethical approach to pain management.

It considers the child's pain and ensures pain relief while minimizing potential risks and side effects.

Choice D rationale:

Administering analgesics only if the child requests them may not be appropriate in all situations.

It's essential to assess the child's pain level and provide pain relief as needed, even if the child does not explicitly request it.

Choice A rationale:

You and your child have the right to be informed and actively participate in pain management decisions, with age-appropriate communication and involvement.”..

The ethical principle of autonomy recognizes the right of individuals to make decisions about their own care, including pain management.

In the case of a child, this principle still applies, but it must be adapted to the child's age and developmental stage.

Age-appropriate communication and involvement are essential for respecting the child's autonomy.

A is the correct answer as it upholds the principle of autonomy.

Choice B rationale:

Your child is too young to understand, so I will make all the pain management decisions without involving them.”..

Disregarding the child's involvement and autonomy based solely on their age is not in line with the ethical principle of autonomy.

While children may not have the same decision-making capacity as adults, their preferences and input should still be considered to the extent possible, taking into account their developmental stage.

B is not the correct answer.

Choice C rationale:

I will make decisions for your child, as it's more efficient and saves time.”..

Efficiency and time-saving should not take precedence over respecting a patient's autonomy, even in the case of a child.

The primary consideration should be what is in the child's best interest and what aligns with ethical principles.

C is not the correct answer.

Choice D rationale:

Your child's pain management decisions should be solely based on my judgment, as I am the healthcare professional.”..

This statement does not respect the principle of autonomy and implies that the nurse should make unilateral decisions without considering the child's or parent's preferences.

Ethical healthcare practice involves collaboration and shared decision-making when appropriate.

D is not the correct answer.