A nurse is caring for a client who is terminally ill and receiving nutritional support. The client's adult children disagree about continuing nutritional support. The dilemma is referred to the ethics committee. Which of the following actions should the nurse expect the committee to take?

Choice A rationale:

Setting target dates for completion is an important step, but it should come after goals and objectives have been established. Goals and objectives provide the foundation for developing a timeline and action plan.

Choice B rationale:

Identifying areas of support is valuable, but it's not the next immediate action after developing the initial plan. Before seeking support, the nurse should clarify the goals and objectives to ensure that the support is aligned with the intended outcomes.

Choice C rationale:

Determining goals and objectives is the next logical step after developing the initial plan. Goals and objectives help guide the committee's work and ensure that the policy revisions are purposeful and aligned with the desired outcomes.

Choice D rationale:

Implementing recommended strategies is a subsequent action that follows the establishment of goals and objectives. Without clear goals and objectives, the strategies might lack direction and cohesiveness.

The correct answer is choice A: Provide information about alternate birth control methods.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should prioritize providing information about alternate birth control methods to the client who is uncertain about undergoing a tubal ligation. This approach aligns with the principle of informed consent and patient autonomy. By presenting different options, the client can make a well-informed decision about their reproductive health. This ensures that the client's choice is based on a comprehensive understanding of all available alternatives.

Choice B rationale:

While involving the client's partner in the decision-making process can be important, the primary responsibility of decision-making lies with the client. Therefore, asking if the client has discussed the decision with their partner (Choice B) may not directly address the client's uncertainty and need for information about alternative birth control methods.

Choice C rationale:

Emphasizing the benefits of having the procedure (Choice C) might not be appropriate if the client is uncertain about whether it's the right choice for them. This approach may come across as biased and not respectful of the client's ambivalence. Providing unbiased information about all options is a more balanced approach.

Choice D rationale:

Discussing the client's feelings about the procedure (Choice D) is essential but should be done in conjunction with providing information about alternate birth control methods. Addressing the client's emotions without offering alternatives may not fully support the client's decision-making process.