What should a nurse do if a patient is not informed about their treatment options?

The correct course of action is to ensure the patient is given comprehensive information about all relevant options. Informed consent is a fundamental principle in nursing and healthcare, which emphasizes that patients have the right to be fully informed about their treatment options. This means that nurses should provide clear and complete information about the available treatments, including their benefits, risks, and alternatives, allowing patients to make informed choices about their care.

Providing comprehensive information empowers patients, enabling them to engage fully in their own healthcare decisions. Nurses play a crucial role in facilitating this process by ensuring that patients understand their options and have the opportunity to ask questions. This approach not only respects patient autonomy but also helps foster trust in the nurse-patient relationship.

Other options do not align with ethical nursing practice. Offering only the most common option limits the patient's choices and does not fulfill the obligation to provide complete information. Disregarding patient concerns undermines their autonomy and can lead to a lack of trust. Advising patients to trust the healthcare team without question negates their right to understand and engage with their treatment plan, which is essential for informed consent and active participation in their care.