The nurse is caring for a newborn requiring a life-saving blood transfusion. The parents are practicing Jehovah’s Witnesses and refuse the transfusion. Who would the nurse consult for assistance in this situation?

Choice A reason: This statement reflects denial, which is a common initial reaction in the grief process. The client is not accepting the reality of their prognosis and believes the doctor is exaggerating. Denial serves as a defense mechanism to protect the individual from the emotional impact of the diagnosis. It is a way for the client to cope with the overwhelming news by rejecting its truth.

Choice B reason: This statement reflects anger, another stage in the grief process. The client is expressing disbelief and frustration towards the doctor’s competence. Anger often follows denial and is directed towards others as a way to cope with the emotional pain. It is not indicative of denial but rather a progression in the grieving process.

Choice C reason: This statement reflects acceptance of the physical symptoms and the reality of the client’s condition. The client acknowledges their lack of energy and the impact of the illness on their daily life. This is not a sign of denial but rather an acceptance of their current state.

Choice D reason: This statement reflects acceptance and gratitude towards the doctor. The client recognizes the efforts made by the healthcare team and accepts that their time is limited. This is a sign of acceptance, the final stage in the grief process, where the individual comes to terms with their situation.

Choice A Reason:

“Records that the client sees the procedure as necessary” is incorrect. The nurse’s role in signing the consent form is not to document the client’s perception of the necessity of the procedure. This responsibility typically falls to the healthcare provider who explains the procedure and its necessity to the client.

Choice B Reason:

“Determines the client does not have a mental illness” is incorrect. While assessing the client’s mental status is part of the overall care, the nurse’s signature on the consent form does not specifically indicate this. The nurse’s role is to witness the client’s signature and ensure they are giving informed consent.

Choice C Reason:

“Assists that the nurse has explained the risks and benefits of the procedure” is incorrect. It is the responsibility of the healthcare provider performing the procedure to explain the risks and benefits. The nurse may reinforce this information but does not primarily provide it.

Choice D Reason:

“Confirms the client is competent to provide consent” is correct. The nurse’s signature on the consent form indicates that the nurse has witnessed the client signing the form and has verified that the client is competent to provide informed consent. This includes ensuring the client understands the information provided and is making the decision voluntarily.