A nurse is teaching the family of a client who has a terminal illness about end-of-life care. Which of the following statements by a family member indicates an understanding of the teaching?
"The nurse can adjust my mother's pain medication as needed.".
"We are responsible for obtaining support services for our mother during this process.".
"My mother would be able to live longer if we decide to use these services.".
"The doctor will make all decisions about my mother's care.".
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
The family member understanding that the nurse can adjust the mother's pain medication as needed indicates an understanding of the nurse's role in managing the patient's symptoms. However, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of end-of-life care as a holistic process involving various aspects beyond pain management.
Choice B rationale:
This choice reflects a comprehensive understanding of end-of-life care. The family's responsibility to obtain support services shows awareness of the need for a multidisciplinary approach to address physical, emotional, and practical needs during this process. End-of-life care is a collaborative effort, and this choice accurately acknowledges the role of the family in coordinating necessary services.
Choice C rationale:
The statement about prolonging the patient's life through services reflects a misconception about end-of-life care. The focus of end-of-life care is on improving the quality of life and managing symptoms rather than attempting to extend life. This choice suggests a lack of understanding about the terminal nature of the illness.
Choice D rationale:
Believing that the doctor will make all decisions about the patient's care might indicate a lack of involvement or shared decision-making in the care process. End-of-life care often involves discussions among the medical team, patients, and their families to ensure that the patient's wishes and preferences are respected.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Performing oral care once each day is not sufficient to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Ventilated patients are at an increased risk of developing VAP due to the presence of an endotracheal tube that bypasses the body's natural defenses. Bacteria can accumulate in the mouth and respiratory tract, leading to pneumonia. Therefore, performing oral care only once a day is inadequate for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing VAP.
Choice B rationale:
Brushing the client's teeth with a firm-bristle toothbrush can cause trauma to the oral tissues, potentially leading to bleeding and irritation. In critically ill patients with an endotracheal tube, using a firm-bristle toothbrush can exacerbate the risk of infection and VAP. It is essential to use gentle and non-traumatic methods for oral care to maintain the integrity of the oral mucosa.
Choice C rationale:
Swabbing the client's mouth with chlorhexidine solution is the correct choice. Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic solution that effectively reduces the growth of bacteria in the oral cavity. Regular use of chlorhexidine mouthwash has been shown to decrease the risk of VAP in mechanically ventilated patients. By reducing the bacterial load in the mouth, the risk of aspiration and subsequent pneumonia is lowered, making it a crucial intervention for preventing VAP.
Choice D rationale:
Raising the head of the bed by 15° for oral care is an important measure to prevent aspiration during oral care. However, it alone is not sufficient to reduce the risk of VAP. While proper head positioning helps prevent the entry of oral secretions into the lower respiratory tract, it must be combined with effective oral hygiene practices, such as using chlorhexidine solution, to comprehensively reduce the risk of VAP.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Inquiring whether the client's family knows about their anxiety is not directly related to addressing the client's current anxiety. The focus should be on the client's feelings and needs rather than involving the family in this particular instance.
Choice B rationale:
This choice is the most appropriate response. Asking the client to share memories from their past redirects their attention from the current anxiety-provoking situation. Discussing positive memories can help alleviate anxiety and provide comfort to the client.
Choice C rationale:
Suggesting to talk later after caring for other clients dismisses the client's immediate need for support and comfort. It's essential to address the client's anxiety promptly rather than delaying the discussion.
Choice D rationale:
Asking the client why they are feeling anxious might put them on the spot and could potentially escalate their anxiety. Instead of prompting them to explain the cause of their anxiety, the nurse should focus on providing reassurance and distraction.
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