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Question

Difficulty: MediumClient Rights and Advocacy

A client is scheduled for a percutaneous liver biopsy later in the afternoon. Shortly after the healthcare provider leaves the room with the signed consent document, the client states, "I signed the paper because the doctor told me to, but I really have no idea what they are going to do to my liver." Which action is the priority for the practical nurse (PN)?

  1. A
    Describe the basic steps of a percutaneous liver biopsy to the client using non-medical terminology.
  2. Notify the healthcare provider that the client requires further clarification before the procedure.Answer
  3. C
    Ask the charge nurse to explain the potential risks and complications of the biopsy to the client.
  4. D
    Reassure the client that the procedure is routine and proceed with administering the prescribed preoperative sedative.

Answer

Notify the healthcare provider that the client requires further clarification before the procedure.
Informed consent requires that the client fully understands the procedure, its risks, and alternatives. It is the legal responsibility of the healthcare provider performing the procedure to provide this explanation. The nurse acts as a client advocate by pausing the preparation and notifying the provider that the client lacks understanding, ensuring the client's rights are protected and legal requirements are met.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the client's statement regarding the signed consent form.
The client explicitly states they do not understand the procedure they just signed consent for.
Identifying a lack of understanding invalidates the informed consent, even if the physical signature was obtained.
2
Determine the scope of practice for a practical nurse regarding informed consent.
The PN may witness the signature and verify understanding, but cannot be the primary source of medical explanation.
Explaining the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a medical procedure is the legal responsibility of the healthcare provider performing the procedure.
3
Select the intervention that best demonstrates client advocacy and adheres to scope of practice.
The PN must stop preoperative preparations and notify the healthcare provider to return.
This action protects the client's right to true informed consent while ensuring the PN remains within their legal scope of practice.

Key Concept

Informed Consent and Client Advocacy
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Topics

Client Rights and Advocacy

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