A practical nurse (PN) is working in the emergency department. An adult client diagnosed with acute cholecystitis is scheduled for an urgent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The healthcare provider has discussed the procedure and left the informed consent form for the client to sign. As the PN prepares to witness the signature, the client states, "I forgot to ask the doctor if there are any other ways to treat this besides having surgery." What is the appropriate action for the PN?
- Withhold the consent form and notify the healthcare provider to answer the client's question.Answer
- BBriefly explain the alternative medical treatments for cholecystitis and then witness the client's signature.
- CAsk the charge nurse to discuss the surgical alternatives with the client before the form is signed.
- DAdvise the client to sign the consent form now to avoid delaying the urgent procedure.
Answer
Withhold the consent form and notify the healthcare provider to answer the client's question.
The correct action is to notify the healthcare provider. For informed consent to be valid, the client must fully understand the procedure, including its risks, benefits, and any alternative treatments. The PN's role is strictly limited to witnessing the signature and ensuring the client is competent and signing voluntarily. If the client has questions about the procedure itself or its alternatives, the nurse must withhold the consent form and contact the provider, as answering these questions is solely the provider's legal responsibility.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The practical nurse's role in informed consent is limited to witnessing the client's voluntary signature; the healthcare provider is responsible for explaining the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives.