A nurse is caring for a client on a medical-surgical unit. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize?

Choice A rationale

While legal advice might assist, attorneys are not required to sign advance directives. Requirements vary by jurisdiction but typically involve witnesses or a notary for validity.

Choice B rationale

Living wills document clients’ preferences for medical care when decision-making is impaired. It is a central component of advance directives and demonstrates the client’s understanding.

Choice C rationale

Though appointing a health care proxy is an option, it is not mandatory for advance directives. Living wills alone can suffice to outline preferences without assigning a proxy.

Choice D rationale

Advance directives generally address situations where resuscitation is undesired, such as DNR orders, rather than requiring explicit documentation for resuscitation preferences, making this statement inaccurate.

NGN QUESTIONS

Choice A rationale

Applying clean dressings over blood-saturated ones helps maintain sterility and pressure, minimizing further bleeding while reducing the risk of contamination or infection.

Choice B rationale

Hydrogen peroxide can delay healing by causing tissue damage through cytotoxic effects on fibroblasts and keratinocytes.

Choice C rationale

Removing objects from penetrating wounds can worsen internal injuries or cause hemorrhage, as the object may be tamponading bleeding vessels.

Choice D rationale

Placing the affected area in a dependent position increases venous pressure, exacerbating swelling and potentially worsening bleeding or tissue damage.