A critically ill newborn is the child of two parents who are Catholic.

QUESTION

A critically ill newborn is the child of two parents who are Catholic. What action should the nurse take regarding the baptism of this infant?

1. Baptize the baby.
2. Ask the parents for direction in whom they want to baptize the baby.
3. Ask the hospital chaplain to baptize the baby.
4. Ask the doctor to baptize the baby.

ANSWER:

Correct Answer: 2

Respecting the religious wishes of the patients is of utmost importance. The nurse should not assume the wishes of the patient and should assess the situation before acting.