An unresponsive male victim of a diving accident is brought to the emergency department where it is determined that immediate surgery is required to save his life. The client is accompanied by a close friend, but no family members are available. Which action should the nurse take first?

The correct answer is choice a. Carry on with surgical preparation of the client without a signed informed consent. Choice A rationale: In emergency situations where immediate surgery is required to save a patient’s life and no family members are available, the doctrine of presumed consent applies. This means that healthcare providers can proceed with necessary treatment without a signed informed consent to prevent serious harm or death. Choice B rationale: Asking the man’s friend to sign the informed consent is not appropriate because friends are not legally authorized to provide consent for medical procedures unless they have legal documentation proving their authority. Choice C rationale: Notifying the unit manager for an emergency court order would delay the necessary surgery, which could be detrimental to the patient’s health. In emergencies, immediate action is required, and waiting for a court order is not feasible. Choice D rationale: Continuing to provide life support while searching for a guardian would also delay the necessary surgery. In life-threatening situations, immediate surgical intervention is prioritized over finding a legal guardian.