A practical nurse (PN) is preparing an adult client for a scheduled elective surgery in an ambulatory care center. The client, who signed the informed consent form earlier, states, "I do not want to go through with this surgery anymore." Arrange the following nursing actions in the correct sequence, from first to last.
- 1Ask the client to clarify their statement and confirm their decision to cancel the surgery.
- 2Reassure the client that they have the right to withdraw their informed consent at any time.
- 3Notify the supervising registered nurse (RN) and the operating surgeon of the client's decision.
- 4Document the client's exact statements and the notification of the healthcare team in the medical record.
Answer
The correct sequence is to first confirm the client's decision, then reassure them of their right to refuse, followed by notifying the RN and surgeon, and finally documenting the event.
The nursing process dictates that the PN must first collect data by clarifying the client's statement. Once intent is verified, the PN advocates for the client by reassuring them of their rights. The PN must then escalate the situation to the RN and the provider, who is responsible for explaining the medical implications of the refusal. Lastly, the PN documents the interaction and the notification process to ensure legal compliance.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Handling a client's revocation of informed consent within the practical nurse's scope of practice.