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Difficulty: EasyAdvance Directives and Informed Consent

A surgeon completes a discussion about a scheduled colonoscopy with a client on a medical-surgical unit. The practical nurse (PN) is then handed the consent form. Which action represents the appropriate scope of practice for the PN in this scenario?

  1. A
    Detailing the possible surgical complications that could occur during the procedure.
  2. B
    Conducting a formal evaluation to determine the client's legal competency.
  3. Observing the client as they place their signature on the document.Answer
  4. D
    Providing answers regarding alternative medical treatments available to the client.

Answer

Observing the client as they place their signature on the document.
The practical nurse's legal role in the informed consent process is limited to acting as a witness. This means the nurse confirms the client's identity, observes the client signing the document, and ensures the signature is given voluntarily without coercion.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary legal responsibility of the practical nurse regarding informed consent documents.
The nurse's role is to act solely as a witness to the signature process.
Scope of practice guidelines limit the nurse's role to verifying identity, confirming the signature is voluntary, and observing the physical signing.
2
Determine whose responsibility it is to explain risks, benefits, and alternatives.
This is strictly the responsibility of the provider performing the procedure.
Only the provider has the specific clinical expertise and legal authority to obtain informed consent by detailing the procedure.
3
Select the option that aligns with witnessing the document rather than educating the client or assessing competency.
Observing the client as they place their signature on the document is the only correct action.
This action stays within the safe and legal boundaries of the practical nurse's scope of practice.

Key Concept

Advance Directives and Informed Consent
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Topics

Advance Directives and Informed Consent

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