A client requires an appendectomy. The surgeon explains the procedure

QUESTION

A client requires an appendectomy. The surgeon explains the procedure and asks the client to sign the consent. The patient speaks very little English and looks worried. As a nurse, you would:

a. Suggest that an interpreter explain the procedure to the client and answer any questions.
b. Ask the client if he has any questions.
c. Draw a picture to show the incision.
d. Not intervene.

ANSWER:

ANS: A
The Five Steps to Safer Patient Care identifies that encouraging patients to ask questions when there are doubts and concerns and ensuring understanding before surgery is performed are ways in which nurses can support patients in having greater influence in their own care. In this situation, asking an interpreter to help enables access to information for the patient and active assessment of his understanding.