An adult client who cannot read needs surgery and is competent to make

An adult client who cannot read needs surgery and is competent to make his own decisions. The best action of the nurse is to:

1. Tell the client in the nurse’s own words what the surgical procedure involves.
2. Read the consent form to the client and have the client state understanding.
3. Make sure the physician explains the procedure to the client.
4. Have a family member who can read sign the consent form.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Telling the client in words other than what is on the consent form is not appropriate as some meaning and information may be lost in the transfer.
Rationale 2: If a client cannot read, the consent form must be read to the client and the client must state understanding before the form is signed.
Rationale 3: The physician should explain the procedure to the client, regardless of the client’s literacy.
Rationale 4: Since the client is a competent adult, he must be the one giving consent. Illiteracy does not make one incompetent.