who is responsible for obtaining the signature from the client on the informed consent

NCLEX-PN

Nclex PN Questions and Answers

1. Who is responsible for obtaining the signature from the client on the informed consent?

A. the staff nurse
B. the charge nurse
C. the LPN
D. the physician

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the physician. It is the physician's responsibility to ensure that the client provides informed consent by obtaining their signature. While nurses play a crucial role in the healthcare team, their responsibility lies in verifying that the consent process has been completed correctly and advocating for the client. The staff nurse, charge nurse, and LPN do not have the authority to obtain the client's signature on the informed consent form, as this is within the scope of practice of the physician.

2. A nurse witnesses a client sign the consent form for surgery with the surgeon. As the surgeon leaves, the client starts to speak and then stops. The nurse asks if the client has further questions, and he says, "I don't want to bother the surgeon."? The nurse should ____.

A. acknowledge the client's wish not to bother the surgeon and tell the client to let you know if they change their mind
B. acknowledge the client's wish not to bother the surgeon and answer all of their questions, as appropriate
C. go get the surgeon to answer all of the client's questions
D. answer any questions as appropriate as well as have the surgeon come back to answer any questions if needed

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should prioritize the client's understanding and comfort. While acknowledging the client's wish not to bother the surgeon is important, it is equally crucial to ensure that the client's questions are answered appropriately and thoroughly. Choice A is correct as it respects the client's initial sentiment and offers the client the opportunity to ask questions later if needed. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests answering all questions immediately, without considering the client's feelings. Choice C is incorrect as it bypasses the nurse's role in addressing the client's concerns. Choice D, the correct answer, balances respecting the client's wish and ensuring that all questions are appropriately addressed, even if it involves the surgeon returning.

3. Which fetal heart monitor pattern can indicate cord compression?

A. variable decelerations
B. early decelerations
C. bradycardia
D. tachycardia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Variable decelerations can indicate cord compression as they are caused by umbilical cord compression or prolapse. This pattern shows an abrupt decrease in heart rate with an erratic shape, often resembling a V or W. Early decelerations (choice B) are typically caused by head compression during contractions and are considered benign. Bradycardia (choice C) is a consistent low heart rate below 110 bpm and is not specific to cord compression. Tachycardia (choice D) is an abnormally high heart rate above 160 bpm and is not associated with cord compression.

4. A nurse monitoring a client with a chest tube notes that there is no tidaling of fluid in the water seal chamber. After further assessment, the nurse suspects that the client's lung has reexpanded and notifies the healthcare provider. The healthcare provider verifies with the use of a chest x-ray that the lung has reexpanded, then calls the nurse to ask that the chest tube be removed. Which action should the nurse take first?

A. Explain the procedure to the client, then remove the chest tube.
B. Call the nursing supervisor.
C. Inform the healthcare provider that removal of a chest tube is not a nursing procedure.
D. Obtain petrolatum-impregnated gauze and ask another nurse to assist in removing the chest tube.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take first is to inform the healthcare provider that removal of a chest tube is not a nursing procedure. Actual removal of a chest tube is the duty of a healthcare provider. If the healthcare provider insists that the nurse remove the tube, the nurse must contact the nursing supervisor. Some agencies' policies and procedures may permit an advanced practice nurse to remove a chest tube, but there is no information in the question to indicate that the nurse is an advanced practice nurse. Choice A is incorrect because the nurse should not proceed with removing the chest tube without proper authorization. Choice B is incorrect as calling the nursing supervisor should come after clarifying with the healthcare provider. Choice D is incorrect as the nurse should not begin the process of removing the chest tube without proper guidance and authorization.

5. The client is unsure about making medical decisions as their disease progresses and wants to appoint someone to make these decisions. Which of the following options would be most appropriate?

A. a living will
B. informed consent
C. a healthcare proxy
D. non-informed consent

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'a healthcare proxy.' A healthcare proxy involves the client appointing an individual to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so. This option allows the client to choose someone they trust to act in their best interests. Choice A, 'a living will,' is a legal document that outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in case they are unable to communicate their decisions. While it is important, it does not involve appointing someone to make decisions. Choice B, 'informed consent,' is a process where a healthcare provider explains a treatment or procedure, including its risks and benefits, to a patient who can then decide whether to proceed. This is not about appointing someone to make decisions on the patient's behalf. Choice D, 'non-informed consent,' is not a valid concept in healthcare. Informed consent is crucial for respecting a patient's autonomy and decision-making capacity.