Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for surgery. The client hands the nurse info about ADs and states, "here, I don't need this. I am too young to worry about life-sustaining measures and what i want done for me." Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a. return the papers to the admitting dept with a note stating the client does not wish to address the issue at this time
b. explain to the client that you never know what can happen during surgery and that he should fill the papers out just in case
c. contact a client representative to talk with the client and offer additional info about the purpose of ADs
d. inform the client that surgery cannot be conducted unless he completes the AD forms

Answer 1

The nurse should return the papers to the admitting department with a note stating that the client does not wish to address the issue at this time.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should option A, which is to return the papers to the admitting department with a note stating that the client does not wish to address the issue at this time. It is important for the nurse to respect the client's autonomy and decision-making process. The client's preference may change in the future, and the nurse should be available to provide information and support when the client is ready to discuss advance directives.