A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing cardiac arrest and has a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) prescription. The client's partner requests medical intervention. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Have the client's partner sign a consent form to reverse the DNR prescription.
Begin chest compressions on the client.
Contact social services to confer with the client's partner.
Adhere to the client's treatment decision.
The Correct Answer is D
A. A DNR prescription is a legally binding document that reflects the client's wishes regarding resuscitation. The consent of the partner or any other individual cannot reverse or override this directive.
B. Initiating chest compressions would be in violation of the DNR order. The DNR order indicates that the client does not want resuscitation efforts to be performed. Respecting the DNR order is crucial, as it reflects the client’s wishes regarding their end-of-life care.
C. While involving social services may be appropriate to provide emotional support and address any family conflicts or concerns, it is not the immediate action needed in this critical situation. The immediate priority is to adhere to the DNR order, which is a legal directive that must be followed.
D. The nurse must follow the DNR order, as it represents the client’s explicit wishes regarding their care
in the event of cardiac arrest. Adhering to the DNR is essential to respect the client’s autonomy and legal rights. The nurse should ensure that all actions are in compliance with the client’s documented wishes and provide support to the partner by explaining the situation and offering appropriate emotional support or referrals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A living will does not require approval from a physician; it is a legal document that outlines a person’s
wishes regarding medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate those wishes.
B. Advance directives should be completed while the individual is still capable of making informed decisions, ideally before a serious health issue arises. These documents are intended to provide
guidance on the person’s wishes regarding medical treatment and end-of-life care in situations where they might not be able to communicate their preferences.
C. The durable power of attorney for health care (also known as a health care proxy) is a component of advance directives. It designates a person to make medical decisions on behalf of the individual if they are unable to do so themselves. This document, along with a living will, is part of advance directives that help ensure a person’s health care wishes are honored.
D. A living will does not require a family member’s co-signature to be valid. It must be signed by the individual and may require witnessing or notarization depending on state laws, but not a family member’s co-signature.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Instructing a client on self-administration of a tap water enema involves providing education and guidance, which is within the scope of the nurse’s role. This task requires assessing the client’s understanding and ability to perform the procedure correctly.
B. Suctioning a client’s long-term tracheostomy involves specialized skills and knowledge, including the ability to manage potential complications and assess the client’s respiratory status. This task should be performed by a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse who has the necessary training and expertise.
C. Changing the dressing on a PICC line involves sterile technique and specialized knowledge to prevent infection and ensure proper care of the central line. This task should be performed by a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse with the appropriate training, as it requires assessment skills and adherence to infection control practices.
D. Using a pain rating scale to monitor a client’s pain level is a task that can be safely delegated to assistive personnel. It involves asking the client to rate their pain and recording the response, which is a straightforward task that does not require advanced clinical judgment.
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