While preparing a hospitalized client for an upcoming abdominal surgery, the healthcare provider (HCP) obtains a signature on the consent document and departs the unit. Shortly after, the client expresses confusion, stating to the practical nurse (PN), 'I signed it, but I have no idea what they are actually cutting out.' In which chronological order should the PN perform the following interventions to protect the client's rights?
- 1Gather data by asking the client to describe their current understanding of the surgery.
- 2Withhold the administration of any scheduled preoperative sedating medications.
- 3Contact the healthcare provider to return to the unit and clarify the procedure details.
- 4Document the client's knowledge deficit, the withheld medications, and the provider notification.
Cevap
The correct sequence is to first gather data regarding the client's understanding, then withhold any sedating medications to protect legal competence, followed by notifying the healthcare provider to explain the procedure, and finally documenting all actions in the medical record.
The practical nurse (PN) must follow the nursing process and act within their legal scope of practice to advocate for the client. First, the PN gathers data to confirm the knowledge deficit. Second, the PN protects the client's right to informed consent by withholding sedatives that would impair decision-making. Third, the PN advocates by notifying the healthcare provider, who holds the legal responsibility for explaining the surgery. Finally, all findings and actions are documented.
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Anahtar Kavram
Client Rights, Informed Consent, and the Practical Nurse's Scope of Practice