Question

A client who is mentally incapacitated is scheduled to undergo surgery. The nurse demonstrates understanding of the principle of autonomy and checks the client's medical record to ensure that consent has been obtained from which person?

a) Attending Nurse
b) Surrogate decision maker
c) Client
d) Operating surgeon

Answer 1

A nurse checks for consent from a surrogate decision maker before proceeding with surgery for a mentally incapacitated client, adhering to the principle of autonomy. The surgical team conducts a Time out to confirm patient details and consent.

Step-by-step explanation:

The principle of autonomy is a fundamental concept in health care, emphasizing the patient's right to make decisions about their own medical treatment. When a client is mentally incapacitated and unable to express their wishes, it is essential that a surrogate decision maker, such as a health care proxy, provides consent for medical procedures like surgery. The nurse demonstrates an understanding of this principle by ensuring that proper consent has been obtained from the appropriate individual, aligning with legal and ethical standards.

In practice, before any surgical procedure, there is a process called 'Time out' where the surgical team, including nurses, surgeons, and an anesthesia professionals, confirms the patient's identity, surgical site and procedure, and verifies that consent has been given. For patients who cannot consent for themselves, a health care proxy, under a living will or an advance directive, provides the necessary consent. This practice respects the autonomy principle and ensures the patient's safety and the team's preparedness.