A nurse is providing care to a 71-year-old client who is in the late stages of cancer and has painful bone metastases. The client is unresponsive but groans and grimaces intermittently. The nurse is drawing up a breakthrough dose of morphine for the client, but a colleague cautions that, "Sure, that will address his pain, but it could depress his respiratory drive and actually kill him at this stage." The colleague's statement prioritizes which ethical principle?

A. Counsel to discuss financial situation with the health care provider: This option is reasonable as discussing financial concerns with the healthcare provider can lead to insights into available resources, assistance programs, or alternative care options. However, the healthcare provider may not have specific knowledge about financial assistance programs or community resources.

B. Refer to social services to explore support available: This is the most appropriate choice. Social services departments within hospitals typically have staff who specialize in helping patients and families navigate financial issues, including identifying available support programs, assistance with insurance coverage, and connecting them with community resources that can help alleviate financial burdens related to healthcare.

C. Discuss selling assets: While selling assets might be a consideration in some situations, it should not be the first option discussed without exploring other avenues for financial assistance or support. It's important to consider the implications of asset liquidation and to explore other options first.

D. Reassure the family that the facility will absorb the costs: It is unlikely that the facility will absorb all costs, especially if the family does not have adequate insurance coverage. It is essential to provide accurate information and explore available resources rather than offering false reassurance.

A. Spending the day at adult day care:

While adult day care programs can offer socialization, supervision, and activities for older adults during the day, they may not directly address the safety concerns associated with the client's recent falls, especially if the falls are occurring at home. Additionally, spending the day at adult day care may not address the need for immediate assistance in case of falls or emergencies when the client is at home alone.

B. A live-in home health care provider:

Having a live-in home health care provider can provide continuous assistance and supervision for the client, which may address safety concerns and reduce the risk of falls, particularly if the falls are related to mobility issues or other health conditions. However, this option may be more intrusive and costly compared to other solutions, and it may not be necessary if the client's needs can be addressed with less intensive interventions.

C. Use of a home monitoring system:

A home monitoring system, such as a medical alert system or a fall detection device, can provide immediate assistance in the event of a fall or emergency. This option allows the client to maintain independence and continue living alone while ensuring that help is readily available when needed. It addresses the immediate safety concerns raised by the client's recent falls and provides peace of mind for both the client and their family members.

D. Relocation to an assisted living facility:

Relocating to an assisted living facility may be considered as a last resort if other options are not feasible or if the client's needs cannot be adequately addressed at home. However, this option may be overly intrusive and disruptive to the client's lifestyle, especially if they prefer to remain in their own home. It is typically reserved for situations where the client requires a higher level of care and supervision that cannot be provided in a home setting.