If a client decides to cancel surgery after signing the consent form, what should the nurse do first?

If a client decides to cancel surgery after signing the consent form, what should the nurse do first?

• A. Contact the surgeon immediately
• B. Encourage the client to discuss reasons for canceling the surgery
• C. Document the client's decision
• D. Proceed with pre-operative preparations

Answer: (B)

When a client decides to cancel surgery after signing the consent form, the best first action for the nurse is to encourage the client to discuss their reasons for canceling the surgery. This approach fosters open communication and allows the nurse to understand the client’s concerns and feelings better. Engaging the client in a discussion can help clarify their thought process and may uncover any misconceptions about the surgery or potential fears. By encouraging the client to express their reasons, the nurse can provide appropriate support and information, addressing any anxieties and potentially aiding the client in making an informed decision. This can be crucial in cases where doubts or fears might be resolved through education or reassurance about the procedure. Moving directly to action, such as contacting the surgeon or documenting the decision without first understanding the client's perspective, may miss a vital opportunity to support the client holistically in their decision-making process. Additionally, proceeding with pre-operative preparations when the client has expressed a desire to cancel is not appropriate and could lead to further distress for the client. Thus, facilitating an open dialogue is essential in this scenario.

When a client decides to cancel surgery after signing the consent form, the best first action for the nurse is to encourage the client to discuss their reasons for canceling the surgery. This approach fosters open communication and allows the nurse to understand the client’s concerns and feelings better. Engaging the client in a discussion can help clarify their thought process and may uncover any misconceptions about the surgery or potential fears.

By encouraging the client to express their reasons, the nurse can provide appropriate support and information, addressing any anxieties and potentially aiding the client in making an informed decision. This can be crucial in cases where doubts or fears might be resolved through education or reassurance about the procedure.

Moving directly to action, such as contacting the surgeon or documenting the decision without first understanding the client's perspective, may miss a vital opportunity to support the client holistically in their decision-making process. Additionally, proceeding with pre-operative preparations when the client has expressed a desire to cancel is not appropriate and could lead to further distress for the client. Thus, facilitating an open dialogue is essential in this scenario.