A nurse is caring for a client who is dying. The nurse should incorporate the principle of nonmaleficence into practice by taking which of the following actions?
Withholding a dose of narcotic pain medication when the client has respiratory depression
Discussing advance directives with the client and the client's family
Providing comfort care measures to the client
Allowing the client's family unlimited visitation at the time of death
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Withholding a dose of narcotic pain medication when there is respiratory depression aligns with nonmaleficence, as it prevents further harm by not exacerbating the client's respiratory issues.
B. Discussing advance directives is important but is more related to autonomy and respect for the client’s wishes rather than nonmaleficence.
C. Providing comfort care is a supportive measure but does not specifically address nonmaleficence in terms of preventing harm.
D. Allowing unlimited visitation respects family wishes but does not directly relate to the principle of nonmaleficence regarding the client’s immediate medical needs.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life, not on curing the illness. Therefore, the oncologist would typically shift focus to palliative care.
B. Managing symptoms such as dyspnea is a primary aspect of hospice care, aimed at improving the quality of life.
C. Hospice care is usually for patients with a prognosis of six months or less, not for those with indefinite life expectancy.
D. Hospice care can be provided in various settings, including the patient’s home, not just long-term care facilities.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Call the provider for a stat DNR order is not appropriate as the client is already in a critical state requiring immediate action.
B. Call the emergency response team is necessary as the client is pulseless, and resuscitation should be initiated according to standard procedures until a DNR order is confirmed.
C. Seek immediate help from the risk manager is not appropriate at this moment; the immediate concern is the client's emergency situation.
D. Respect the family's wishes and do nothing is not appropriate as immediate life-saving measures should be taken until a formal DNR order is in place.