Question

A stable older adult client is comatose following a cerebral vascular accident. The primary healthcare provider believes a gastrostomy tube should be placed for long-term nutrition. No family members have been located. What would be done to obtain informed consent for the procedure

Answer 1

Answer:

Ideally, the nurse should contact the person responsible for medical assistance so that that person can authorize the use of the gastrostomy tube.

Explanation:

A gastrostomy tube consists of a flexible tube that is inserted into the patient's body. This all passes through the skin and reaches the stomach and is used to promote food to patients who cannot or cannot eat through the mouth. It is very common for this tube to be used in patients who have suffered a stroke, as shown in the question above. The use of this tube is temporary, until the packet is able to feed itself, however in some cases it is necessary for the patient to use the tube for months, for years and sometimes for a lifetime. For this reason, it is necessary for the patient's family to authorize the introduction of the tube into the patient's body. However, if the team of nurses is unable to locate the patient's family, it is necessary that nurses give authorization to the person responsible for medical care, as this tube may be essential for the patient.