A client who has a progressive neurological disorder tells the nurse that they want to have a physician-assisted death (PAD) when their condition becomes intolerable. The nurse is uncomfortable with this request and does not agree with the client's decision.
Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
"I'm sorry, but I cannot help you with that. It is against my personal and professional values."
"I understand that this is a difficult and personal decision for you. Can you tell me more about why you want to have a PAD?"
"I think that you are depressed and hopeless. You should talk to a psychiatrist or a counselor before you make such a decision."
"I respect your decision, but I cannot participate in it. I will ask another nurse to take over your care."
The Correct Answer is B
The nurse should acknowledge the client's decision and express empathy and understanding, without imposing their own values or judgments. The nurse should also explore the client's reasons, feelings, concerns, and expectations for having a PAD, and provide information, education, and support as needed.
Answer A is incorrect because it may make the client feel rejected, guilty, or ashamed, and it does not address the client's needs or concerns.
Answer C is incorrect because it may make the client feel invalidated, stigmatized, or patronized, and it does not respect the client's autonomy or dignity.
Answer D is incorrect because it may make the client feel abandoned, isolated, or betrayed, and it does not facilitate communication or continuity of care.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should inform the health care provider of the discrepancy between the client's advance directive and the spouse's consent, and request clarification on how to proceed. The health care provider should then discuss the situation with the spouse and explain their role and responsibilities as a surrogate decision-maker, as well as the benefits and burdens of dialysis for the client. The health care provider should also try to resolve any conflicts or misunderstandings that may exist between the client's wishes and the spouse's beliefs or values.
Answer A is incorrect because it does not respect the client's advance directive or their right to self-determination, and it may cause harm or suffering to the client.
Answer B is incorrect because it may delay or complicate the decision-making process, and it may not be necessary unless there is a serious ethical dilemma or legal dispute that cannot be resolved by other means.
Answer C is incorrect because it is not within the nurse's scope of practice to educate or persuade the spouse about the client's advance directive or its implications; this should be done by the health care provider or another qualified professional.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should encourage the spouse to communicate with the client about their preferences for end-of-life care, and express their love and support. This can help the client feel more comfortable and respected, and reduce the risk of conflicts or regrets later on.
Answer A is incorrect because it does not respect the client's autonomy or right to make informed decisions about their own care.
Answer C is incorrect because it may delay or prevent important conversations that need to happen before the client's condition worsens.
Answer D is incorrect because it violates the client's legal and ethical rights, and may cause resentment or anger from the client.
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