A client is preparing for an elective lumbar laminectomy. The healthcare provider has explained the procedure and left the room. As the nurse prepares to witness the informed consent signature, the client asks, "What exactly are the chances that I will have permanent nerve damage from this surgery?" Which action is the most appropriate for the nurse to take?
- Contact the healthcare provider to return and address the client's specific questions.Answer
- BReassure the client that the surgeon is highly experienced and severe complications are rare.
- CDocument the client's verbalized anxiety and proceed with witnessing the signature.
- DRead the potential surgical risks listed on the consent form aloud to the client.
Answer
Contact the healthcare provider to return and address the client's specific questions.
The registered nurse's role in the informed consent process is to witness the signature, confirm the client is giving consent voluntarily, and verify the client appears competent. If a client asks specific questions about the risks, benefits, or alternatives of the procedure, it clearly indicates they are not yet fully informed. The nurse must not provide this medical information; instead, the nurse must advocate for the client by contacting the healthcare provider to return and address the questions before the consent form is signed.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The registered nurse's role in informed consent is to advocate for the client and witness the signature, whereas the healthcare provider is solely responsible for explaining risks, benefits, and answering specific medical questions.
Estimated Time:1m 0s