An older adult fell at home and fractured a hip, which requires surgical repair. After admittance to the emergency department, the client was given sedation for pain before a surgical permit was signed. What should be done to obtain consent?

Question

1. The physician should have the client's wife sign the consent form.
2. The physician should wait until the effects of the medication wear off and have the client sign the form.
3. Because the client has been medicated, the nurse should thoroughly explain the consent form to the client.
4. This would be considered an emergency situation and consent would be implied.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: A client who is confused, disoriented, or sedated is not considered functionally competent and a legal guardian or representative can provide or refuse consent for the client. In this case, because the client was given medication that sedated him, the wife would be appropriate for giving consent for the surgical procedure.
Rationale 2: Waiting until the effects of the medication wear off would not be in the best interest of the client.
Rationale 3: Thorough explanation may or may not matter in this case because the client is considered functionally incompetent. Besides, it is the physician's responsibility to obtain informed consent.
Rationale 4: Implied consent may be used in a medical emergency, but in this case, there is an appropriate option available.