A client who has a terminal illness asks the nurse, "If I have a DNR prescription, does that mean I will no longer receive any treatment for my condition?"
Which of the following statements should the nurse provide to explain a DNR prescription?

A DNR prescription means you will only receive pain medication for your treatments.

A DNR prescription will limit your current treatment regimen.

A DNR prescription will allow you to continue with your current treatment regimen.

A DNR prescription will limit your ability to receive invasive procedures.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: The statement that a DNR prescription means the client will only receive pain medication is incorrect. A DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order does not affect the provision of treatments other than those required to resuscitate the patient if their heart stops or they stop breathing. Patients with a DNR can still receive all other medical treatments and interventions aimed at managing symptoms and improving quality of life, including pain management.

Choice B reason: A DNR prescription does not limit the current treatment regimen in terms of ongoing treatments for the patient's condition. The DNR order specifically refers to not performing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if the patient's breathing or heart stops. All other aspects of the patient's care plan, including aggressive treatments, can continue if they align with the patient's wishes and medical advice.

Choice C reason: This is the correct statement. A DNR prescription allows the patient to continue with their current treatment regimen. It is a directive that applies only in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, indicating that CPR should not be performed. However, it does not preclude the patient from receiving other medical treatments or interventions.

Choice D reason: A DNR prescription does not inherently limit the ability to receive invasive procedures. The decision to pursue or avoid invasive procedures would be based on the patient's overall treatment goals, prognosis, and personal preferences, not solely on the presence of a DNR order.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Cheyne-Stokes respirations, characterized by a pattern of irregular breathing with periods of apnea, can be a sign of brain stem compression due to increased intracranial pressure. However, it is not typically the first sign of deteriorating neurological status.

Choice B reason: Pupillary dilation, especially if it is unilateral, can indicate pressure on the cranial nerves due to increased intracranial pressure. It is a concerning sign but may not be the first to appear as neurological function deteriorates.

Choice C reason: An altered level of consciousness is often the first sign of deteriorating neurological status in a patient with increased intracranial pressure. Changes in consciousness can range from slight disorientation or confusion to complete unresponsiveness.

Choice D reason: Decorticate posturing, which involves abnormal flexion of the arms with extension of the legs, indicates significant brain injury and is a later sign of increased intracranial pressure, not typically the first sign.

A. Press down on the orbital area of the eye. B. Pinch the trapezius muscle. C. Use a 25-gauge needle. D. Elicit a reflex with a reflex hammer.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Pressing down on the orbital area of the eye, known as the oculocephalic reflex or 'doll's eye' maneuver, is a method used to assess brainstem function in an unresponsive patient. However, this should be done with caution and is generally avoided if there is a suspicion of a neck injury or increased intracranial pressure.

Choice B reason: Pinching the trapezius muscle is a common method to elicit a response to painful stimuli. It is considered a less invasive and safer initial approach to assess the patient's response to pain without causing harm.

Choice C reason: Using a 25-gauge needle to elicit a response is not a standard practice and can be harmful. It poses a risk of skin puncture and infection, and it is not an appropriate method for assessing a patient's level of consciousness.

Choice D reason: Eliciting a reflex with a reflex hammer is used to assess the deep tendon reflexes, which can provide information about the integrity of the nervous system. However, it is not typically used as a method to elicit a response to painful stimuli in an unresponsive patient.

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A client who has a terminal illness asks the nurse, "If I have a DNR prescription, does that mean I will no longer receive any treatment for my condition?" Which of the following statements should the nurse provide to explain a DNR prescription?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing a client who has increased intracranial pressure. The nurse should recognize that which of the following is the first sign of deteriorating neurological status?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A patient is exhibiting an altered level of consciousness and is unresponsive to verbal stimuli. To elicit a response from a painful stimulus, the nurse would:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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A client who has a terminal illness asks the nurse, "If I have a DNR prescription, does that mean I will no longer receive any treatment for my condition?"
Which of the following statements should the nurse provide to explain a DNR prescription?