Maternal Newborn Nursing Related

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The nurse is caring for a child brought to the emergency department by a babysitter. The child needs an emergency appendectomy and the parents cannot be contacted. What would be the nurse's best response to this situation?

  • A. Have the babysitter sign the consent form even if she does not have signed papers to do so.
  • B. Have the primary care physician for the child sign the consent form.
  • C. Document failed attempts to obtain consent to allow emergency care.
  • D. Delay medical care until the child's next of kin can be contacted.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Health care providers can provide emergency treatment to a child without consent if they have made reasonable attempts to contact the child's parent or legal guardian.