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 D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Insisting the client take medications does not respect the client’s autonomy and is not an advocacy action.
B. Informing the client that the medication is the same as taken at home does not necessarily address the client’s concerns or questions.
C. Telling the client that refusal is noncompliance does not support client autonomy and does not address their concerns.
D. Encouraging the client to verbalize questions supports their right to be informed and make decisions about their care, demonstrating advocacy.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A client who has Guillain-Barre syndrome requires close monitoring and specialized care due to progressive weakness and potential respiratory issues. This client's care may involve more complex needs that are beyond the AP's scope.
B. A client who has a lumbosacral spinal tumor is likely to have fewer immediate needs related to eating assistance, making this task appropriate to delegate to the AP. The client’s primary concern may be mobility or pain management, but meal assistance is a routine task.
C. A client who has systemic sclerosis may have issues with gastrointestinal motility and swallowing, requiring more careful feeding assistance and monitoring, which should be performed by the nurse.
D. A client who has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) requires specialized care for swallowing difficulties and respiratory issues, making it inappropriate to delegate meal assistance to the AP.