What should a nurse practitioner do if a 14-year-old girl with a positive pregnancy test requests an abortion?

The appropriate response in this situation involves considering the patient's needs while maintaining professionalism and providing support. When a 14-year-old girl presents with a positive pregnancy test and requests an abortion, the nurse practitioner should engage in a sensitive and informative discussion. Referring her to a peer for further questions might initially seem counterintuitive since it doesn't provide direct care; however, this peer support could create a safe space for the patient to explore her feelings and make informed decisions, especially if the peer is knowledgeable or experienced in discussing reproductive health.

Engaging with peers can help the patient understand that she is not alone in facing this situation. Such referrals should be handled with care, as ensuring confidentiality and the emotional well-being of the patient is paramount. It also helps to facilitate a more comprehensive support system alongside medical advice.

Discussing personal views can lead to bias in the care provided and does not prioritize the patient's autonomy or emotional health. Excusing oneself from the case entirely would ignore the practitioner’s responsibility to provide care and guidance. Referring the patient to an obstetrician is more of a passive approach, and while it is appropriate to involve specialists in care plans, the engagement and support at the initial visit are critical to empower the patient.

Thus, the response