The nurse at an ambulatory care clinic is participating in an active shooter drill. The shooter is rapidly approaching the nurse's location and the nurse cannot get to an exit. What next best action is appropriate?

Choice A reason: The person granted power of attorney for healthcare would be responsible for signing the informed consent only if the client is unable to make decisions for themselves due to incompetence or incapacity. Since the client in this scenario is competent and neurologically intact, the power of attorney is not applicable.

Choice B reason: The client's emergency contact is not authorized to sign informed consent unless they hold legal power of attorney or the client is incapacitated and unable to make decisions. The emergency contact's primary role is to be contacted in emergency situations, not to make medical decisions on behalf of the client.

Choice C reason: The legal next of kin would only be responsible for signing the informed consent if the client is not capable of doing so themselves. In this case, the client is competent and neurologically intact, so the next of kin's consent is not needed.

Choice D reason: The client is responsible for signing the informed consent because they are competent and capable of making their own medical decisions. Informed consent must be obtained from the client directly when they have the capacity to understand and agree to the proposed treatment or procedure.

Choice A reason: Restricting visiting of the victims until the bodies are prepared is a procedural step that can be managed without immediate involvement. While it's important, it does not directly address the family's immediate emotional needs.

Choice B reason: Providing privacy for law enforcement to interview the family is necessary for the investigation, but it should not take precedence over addressing the family's immediate emotional distress.

Choice C reason: Offering a calm location for the family to cope and discuss their needs addresses the immediate emotional and psychological support that the family requires in the wake of a traumatic event. It provides them with a safe space to begin processing their grief and start the healing process.

Choice D reason: Calling the hospital chaplain is a valuable step for providing spiritual and emotional support, but the first priority is to offer a calm and safe environment for the family. The chaplain can then be called to assist in this supportive space.