Which action reflects a nurse exercising autonomy in clinical practice?

The correct answer highlights a nurse's ability to make clinical decisions based on their professional knowledge and the individual needs of the client. By measuring the calf circumference of a client who reports unrelieved leg pain, the nurse is exercising autonomy by using their clinical judgment to assess a potentially serious condition, such as deep vein thrombosis or another vascular issue. This action is rooted in the nurse's education, experience, and understanding of the implications of the client's symptoms, allowing them to respond to the client's specific health status proactively.

Obtaining a client’s signature for informed consent is an important action but typically aligns more with legal and ethical protocols rather than clinical autonomy. Administering a scheduled dose of medication is a vital nursing responsibility, but it usually follows established protocols rather than exhibiting independent decision-making. Consulting a physician before any client assessment suggests a lack of autonomy, as it implies the nurse is not acting independently in their practice by relying on another's input before assessing the client.