Which of the following is a risk factor for developing thromboembolism in the post surgical setting?

A. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system, specifically in the response to infections and in immune regulation. They do not have a role in the transport of oxygen in the blood.
B. Neutrophils are another type of white blood cell that is essential for fighting bacterial infections. They are part of the body's immune response but do not transport oxygen.
C. Platelets are small cell fragments that are crucial for blood clotting and wound repair. They do not have a role in oxygen transport.
D. Hemoglobin is the primary molecule responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. It is a protein found in red blood cells (erythrocytes) that binds to oxygen in the lungs and releases it in tissues throughout the body. Hemoglobin carries the majority of oxygen in the bloodstream and is essential for effective oxygen transport and delivery.

A. Explaining the risks and benefits of the procedure is generally the responsibility of the surgeon or the healthcare provider who will perform the procedure. They are in the best position to provide detailed and specific information about the procedure, including potential complications and benefits.
B. Similar to explaining the risks and benefits, discussing alternatives is usually done by the surgeon or the provider. The nurse should ensure that the client is aware that alternatives are available and that this information has been provided by the appropriate medical professional.
C. It is the responsibility of the surgeon or the healthcare provider to obtain informed consent. However, the nurse should confirm that the consent process has been completed. This means ensuring that the consent form is signed and that the client has been properly informed. While the nurse does not obtain consent, they verify that it has been done correctly.
D. Describing the consequences of not undergoing the surgery is part of the informed consent process and is generally the responsibility of the surgeon. The nurse should ensure that this information has been communicated to the client by the appropriate provider.
E. The nurse often acts as a witness to the client’s signature on the consent form. This involves confirming that the client has signed the form voluntarily and after being fully informed. The nurse’s role in this process is to ensure the proper documentation and verification that the consent has been given.