Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 86%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
A client who is disoriented and has a cardiac arrhythmia arrives via ambulance to the emergency department.Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Proceed with treatment without obtaining written consent. In emergency situations where immediate treatment is necessary to prevent harm or preserve life, the nurse can proceed with treatment without obtaining written consent. This is based on the ethical principle of beneficence, which prioritizes the well-being of the client. Contacting the next of kin for consent (choice A) or having the client sign a consent form (choice C) may delay necessary treatment and potentially endanger the client. Notifying risk management (choice D) is important but not the immediate action needed in this situation.