After talking to the client, the health care provider (HCP) tells the registered nurse that the client's signature is needed on the consent form that has been filled out. While the nurse is obtaining the signature, the client states, "I'm not clear on what is included in the low-fat diet that I'll be on after the cholecystectomy." What action should the nurse take?

Question

After talking to the client, the health care provider (HCP) tells the registered nurse that the client's signature is needed on the consent form that has been filled out.  While the nurse is obtaining the signature, the client states, "I'm not clear on what is included in the low-fat diet that I'll be on after the cholecystectomy."  What action should the nurse take?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The HCP performing the surgery should explain the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the specific procedure to the client. However, the nurse can witness the client's signing of the consent form; this differs from "obtaining consent." If the client had a question about the procedure, or the risks, alternatives, or outcomes, then the HCP should be contacted to provide additional teaching to the client. However, an ordinary question about general care or health care teaching can be answered by the nurse as this is part of the nurse's role. (Options A, B, and D) As the client is not asking about details related to the procedure, it is unnecessary for the HCP to return to talk to the client (unless the client specifically asks for this). The client's question does not interfere with the ability to legitimately sign consent for the procedure or with the nurse's witnessing of the client signing the consent form. Educational objective: It is the HCP's responsibility to obtain informed consent and explain the procedure's risks, benefits, and alternatives to the client. The nurse can witness the client's signature and provide normal teaching. If the client has a question about the proposed procedure/surgery, the HCP should return and provide additional teaching.

After Talking to the Client, the Health Care Provider (HCP)