A practical nurse (PN) is assigned to care for a client preparing for an elective surgical procedure. The provider has discussed the surgery with the client. The client is currently alert and oriented but becomes anxious and repeatedly attempts to remove their peripheral intravenous (IV) line. Meanwhile, an unidentified caller claiming to be the client's cousin requests a condition update over the phone. Which of the following actions by the PN are appropriate? Select all that apply.
- Act as a witness to the client's signature on the preoperative informed consent formAnswer
- BDescribe the potential surgical risks and alternative treatments prior to the client signing the consent form
- Verify if the client has provided a written authorization privacy code before sharing any medical information with the callerAnswer
- DInform the caller of the scheduled surgery time but withhold the client's specific medical diagnosis
- EApply soft bilateral wrist restraints immediately to prevent the client from dislodging the preoperative IV line
- Attempt to distract the client and cover the IV insertion site with a flexible sleeve before considering physical restraintsAnswer
Answer
The correct actions include acting as a witness to the consent signature, verifying authorization before disclosing information over the phone, and attempting less restrictive alternatives (like covering the IV site) before applying restraints.
The practical nurse's role in informed consent is strictly to witness the voluntary signature of an alert, competent client after the provider has educated them. Upholding confidentiality requires verifying that a caller is an authorized contact before sharing any health information. Finally, client rights dictate that least restrictive measures, such as distraction or concealing medical lines, must be exhausted and documented prior to the application of physical restraints.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Client Rights: Informed Consent, Confidentiality, and Restraint Alternatives