A rare malignancy will require the amputation of an adolescent client’

A rare malignancy will require the amputation of an adolescent client’s leg. The client refuses the surgery, stating: “I would rather die than have my leg amputated.” What information should the nurse use to plan future interventions for this cl

1. The knowledge that adolescents are very concerned about body image
2. Concern about need for education regarding the danger of delaying surgery
3. The fact that the parents will have the ultimate decision about surgery
4. The ability of the adolescent to understand medical terminology

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Adolescents are very concerned about body image and will make decisions based upon peer or media opinion even if it puts their health at risk. The nurse’s further interventions should be planned with this thought in mind.
Rationale 2: Although the client may need further education, the issues regarding the adolescent’s focus on body image should be taken into consideration with every new intervention.
Rationale 3: Even though the parents will make the ultimate decision, the issues regarding the adolescent’s focus on body image should be taken into consideration with every new intervention.
Rationale 4: Although there may be a problem with the client understanding medical terminology, the issues regarding the adolescent’s focus on body image should be taken into consideration with every new intervention.