A dietitian with a prescription for no not resuscitate (DNR) begins to manifest signs of impending death. After notifying the family of the patient's status, what priority action should the nurse implement?
The patient's need for pain medication should be determined.
The nurse manager should be updated on the patient's status.
The patient's status should be conveyed to the chaplain.
The impending signs of death should be documented.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A is correct because the nurse's priority is to provide comfort and dignity to the dying patient. Pain management is an essential aspect of end-of-life care.
Choice B is incorrect because updating the nurse manager is not a priority action. The nurse manager can be informed later, after the patient's needs are met.
Choice C is incorrect because conveying the patient's status to the chaplain is not a priority action. The chaplain can be contacted later, after the patient's needs are met. The chaplain may also need the consent of the patient or the family before providing spiritual support.
Choice D is incorrect because documenting the impending signs of death is not a priority action. Documentation can be done later, after the patient's needs are met. Documentation is important, but not as important as providing comfort and dignity to the dying patient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Notifying the healthcare provider is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should prioritize interventions that address the client's immediate needs, such as oxygenation and circulation.
Choice B reason: Preparing a continuous heparin infusion per protocol is an appropriate action for preventing further clot formation and reducing the risk of recurrent pulmonary embolism, but it is not the first action. The nurse should first stabilize the client's condition before administering anticoagulant therapy.
Choice D reason: Bringing the emergency crash cart to the bedside is a prudent action, but not the first one. The nurse should prepare for possible cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in case of cardiac arrest, but should first attempt to prevent it by providing oxygen and other supportive measures.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because instructing the client and family to reconsider end of life choices is disrespectful and insensitive. The nurse should respect the client's autonomy and preferences and support their decisions.
Choice B reason: This is correct because teaching the client how to use guided imagery is a helpful intervention for coping with feelings related to death and dying. Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that involves visualizing positive images and scenarios that can reduce stress, anxiety, and pain.
Choice C reason: This is correct because recording the client's desire to live is an important intervention for coping with feelings related to death and dying. The nurse should acknowledge and validate the client's emotions and help them express their hopes and fears.
Choice D reason: This is correct because encouraging family to visit frequently is a beneficial intervention for coping with feelings related to death and dying. The nurse should facilitate family involvement and communication and help the client maintain meaningful relationships.
Choice E reason: This is correct because encouraging family to bring the client old photographs is a useful intervention for coping with feelings related to death and dying. The nurse should assist the client in reminiscing and reviewing their life story and achievements.
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