The nurse is attempting to get the patient to sign the operative consent. When asked if the health care provider explained the procedure to the patient, the patient replies "Not much." The nurse should:

Question

a. develop a comprehensive teaching plan related to the surgical procedure.
b. ask the patient what information the doctor has explained about the surgery.
c. contact the surgeon and ask for further clarification of information given to patient.
d. focus on postoperative exercises and home-care following surgery.

Answer 1

ANS: B
Careful observation and attention to detail help the nurse to notice subtle cues and recognize how best to validate and interpret patient data. The nurse must be careful not to make false assumptions or generalizations regarding the patient's responses to the health concern. The nurse is correct to ask the patient about the upcoming surgical procedure instead of assuming that the patient has limited knowledge. Developing a comprehensive teaching plan is not necessary until further clarification is obtained. Focusing on postoperative treatment plans is important but not the priority at this time. It is not appropriate to contact the surgeon unless the patient demonstrates an actual knowledge deficit.