Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 71%
Simulated
The nurse is preparing to sign a client's surgical consent form after the physician has explained the procedure to the client and family. As the client signs the form, she comments 'I really didnÔÇÖt understand most of what the doctor said, but I have to have this procedure, so I want to sign.' Which is the appropriate nursing action?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Notifying the physician or nursing supervisor (B) ensures informed consent, a legal and ethical requirement, by addressing the clientÔÇÖs lack of understanding. Witnessing without clarification (A) violates consent principles, canceling the procedure (C) is premature, and explaining as a nurse (D) may exceed the nurseÔÇÖs role, as the physician should clarify procedure details.