The nurse is admitting a client with acute liver failure. According to the Patient’s Bill of Rights, which responsibilities does the nurse understand to be the client’s duty? Select all that apply.

  • providing her own translator if she does not speak English
  • screening and stabilization from emergency services as needed
  • providing proof of insurance or ability to pay before care begins
  • accepting responsibility for refusing treatments and medications that may alter health outcomes
  • providing truthful and accurate information regarding medical history, medications, and lifestyle habits, such as drug abuse or smoking, that might affect care
Numbers 4 and 5 are correct.
The Patient’s Bill of Rights covers the rights and responsibilities of all clients seeking health care services. The client is responsible for any outcomes if she refuses recommended treatments and medications, as long she is considered competent. A client who is not competent to make decisions, such as a child or someone mentally incapacitated, should have a responsible family member or legal caregiver make decisions for her. The client is also responsible for providing truthful information on past medical history, medications, drug abuse, smoking, or any other factors that affect the client’s health. The client has a right to a translator if she does not speak English; it is not her responsibility to provide one. The client has the right to be screened and stabilized by emergency services if needed; this is not a responsibility borne by the client. Providing proof of insurance or ability to pay is not a client responsibility addressed by the Patient’s Bill of Rights.