A nurse is planning care for a group of clients. The nurse should expect to witness an informed consent for a client who will undergo which of the following procedures?
A.
Administration of an enema.
B.
Performance of a paracentesis.
C.
Insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter.
D.
Placement of an NG tube.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is:
B. Performance of a paracentesis.
Explanation:
Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement before performing any invasive procedure that carries significant risks to the patient. The process involves educating the patient about the procedure, its risks, benefits, alternatives, and the potential consequences of not undergoing the procedure. The patient must be competent, have adequate information, and provide voluntary agreement to proceed.
Option A: Administration of an enema Administering an enema is a routine, non-invasive procedure often performed by nursing staff without the need for informed consent. The risks associated with enemas are generally minimal and include discomfort, minor irritation, or electrolyte imbalance. Because of the low-risk nature of this procedure, informed consent is not typically required.
Option B: Performance of a paracentesis Paracentesis is an invasive procedure in which a needle is inserted into the peritoneal cavity to remove fluid. This procedure is performed to diagnose or treat conditions like ascites, which often occurs in liver disease or cancer. Paracentesis carries significant risks, such as infection, bleeding, bowel perforation, and hypotension. Due to these potential complications, obtaining informed consent is essential to ensure the patient understands the procedure and agrees to it.
Option C: Insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter The insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter is a routine procedure, typically performed by nurses without the need for informed consent. Although it is invasive, the risks associated with catheter insertion, such as infection or discomfort, are generally low. Informed consent is not usually required unless the patient refuses or the procedure is being done under unusual circumstances.
Option D: Placement of an NG tube Placing a nasogastric (NG) tube is another routine nursing procedure that does not typically require informed consent. The risks are generally low, though discomfort, nasal irritation, and, in rare cases, misplacement can occur. Because it is a standard procedure, consent is not usually necessary.
In summary, informed consent is specifically required for procedures that are invasive and carry substantial risks, such as paracentesis. The nurse must ensure that the patient is fully informed and consents voluntarily before proceeding with such procedures.