A nurse is providing care to a client who is preparing to undergo surgery. The client inquires about advance directives. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "Advance directives are the same as a consent form for health care treatment": Advance directives are different from a consent form. A consent form is specific to the current treatment or procedure, while advance directives outline future healthcare wishes in the event the client becomes unable to make decisions. B. "Advance directives are for clients who have life-threatening conditions.": While advance directives are especially important for clients with serious illnesses, they are appropriate for all adults, regardless of current health status, to ensure their wishes are known and respected if they become incapacitated. C. "Advance directives must be approved by your lawyer.": Advance directives do not require a lawyer's approval to be valid. They usually need to be signed by the client and witnessed or notarized, depending on state laws, but legal counsel is not mandatory for completing one. D. "Advance directives protect your right to make your own health care decisions.": Advance directives ensure that a client’s wishes regarding healthcare are known and respected even if they cannot voice them later. They preserve the client’s autonomy and legal rights concerning treatment preferences.