A client is brought to the emergency department after being involved i

A client is brought to the emergency department after being involved in a motor vehicle crash. Although the client is conscious, her condition is critical and will require emergency surgery. The client does not speak English.

What is the best action of the staff?
1. Read the consent form and have the client sign it anyway.
2. Explain as best they can using pictures and gestures.
3. Have the hospital interpreter explain the procedure.
4. Proceed with surgery as implied consent would be the case in this situation.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Reading the consent form to someone who doesn’t understand the words is pointless.
Rationale 2: There is a better option available than using pictures and gestures in the hope of explaining the procedure.
Rationale 3: If the client does not speak the same language as the health professional who is providing the information, an interpreter must be present.
Rationale 4: Implied consent indicates that the person understands what will be done.