A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is caring for a client who states that she plans to leave the facility against medical advice. For which of the following actions by the nurse should the charge nurse intervene?

Rationale: A. Asks the client what her plans are for follow-up care: This is an appropriate action that demonstrates concern for the client’s continuity of care and safety, even if she decides to leave against medical advice. B. Asks the client to sign a form releasing the hospital from legal responsibility: This is standard practice when a client leaves against medical advice, as it documents that the client was informed of potential risks and chose to leave voluntarily. This action is appropriate and does not require the charge nurse to intervene. C. Shows the client her abnormal laboratory results: Providing relevant medical information is appropriate to help the client make an informed decision about her care before leaving the facility. D. Asks security to detain the client until the provider is notified: Clients have the legal right to leave a healthcare facility unless they are under specific legal or mental health holds. Detaining a competent adult against their will is unlawful and violates patient rights hence requiring intervention by the charge nurse.