A nurse is preparing a client for a surgical procedure and notes a signed consent form in the client's medical record. When the nurse asks if the client has any questions, the client states, "I'm not really sure what's going to happen, but the doctor said it's what I need." What is the nurse's most appropriate action?
Proceed with preoperative preparations since the consent form is signed.
Provide a detailed explanation of the surgical procedure to the client.
Document the client's statement in the medical record as the only action.
Notify the surgeon that the client does not fully understand the procedure.
The correct action is for the nurse to notify the surgeon that the client needs further explanation. While a consent form may be signed, the nurse's role as a patient advocate includes ensuring the consent is truly informed. The client's statement indicates a lack of understanding. It is the surgeon's responsibility to provide a clear explanation of the procedure, including risks, benefits, and alternatives, to obtain informed consent. The nurse should not proceed with preoperative tasks that depend on informed consent, nor should they be the one to provide the detailed explanation of the surgery. Documenting the conversation is important, but the immediate priority is to address the client's lack of understanding by involving the surgeon.
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