A registered nurse (RN) delegates a practical nurse (PN) to obtain a client's signature on a surgical consent form for an upcoming wound debridement. The RN states, "The surgeon just finished explaining the procedure, so you only need to witness the signature." As the PN hands the client the form, the client states, "I am ready to sign, but I honestly cannot remember what the doctor said about the chances of getting an infection." Which action should the PN take?
- Withhold the consent document and notify the surgeon that the client requires clarification regarding the procedural risks.Cevap
- BReview the documented surgical risks in the medical record and summarize them for the client before witnessing the signature.
- CReturn the consent form to the delegating RN so the RN can provide the necessary education about the surgical risks.
- DAdvise the client to sign the document now to avoid delays and assure them the surgeon will answer questions in the preoperative area.
Cevap
The PN must withhold the consent document and notify the surgeon that the client requires clarification regarding the procedural risks.
The provider performing the procedure is legally responsible for obtaining informed consent, which includes explaining the risks, benefits, and alternatives. The role of the practical nurse (PN) is solely to witness the signature and verify that the client is signing voluntarily with full understanding. Because the client explicitly stated they do not remember the risks, the consent is no longer informed. The PN must halt the signing process and notify the provider to re-educate the client.
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Advance Directives and Informed Consent