​​​​​​Patient Data

Exhibits

Review H and P, nurse's notes, and laboratory results.

Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices area to specify which condition the client is most likely experiencing, two actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and two parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress,

Rationale

A. A living will often includes directives regarding life-sustaining treatments, including intubation. If the living will explicitly states a preference against intubation, the nurse should ensure this information is known to the healthcare team. However, a living will does not automatically imply a DNR status unless specifically stated.

B. When a living will is presented, and decisions need to be made regarding life-sustaining treatments like intubation, it is appropriate to facilitate a family meeting. In this meeting, the healthcare team, including palliative care specialists if available, can discuss the client's wishes as outlined in the living will. The goal is to ensure everyone understands the client's preferences and to make informed decisions about the course of treatment.

C. The nurse should notify the attending healthcare provider about the existence of the client's living will and its directives regarding medical interventions such as intubation. The healthcare provider needs to be aware of the client's wishes to guide the decision-making process and ensure appropriate care is provided according to the client's preferences.

D. It is crucial to ensure that the living will, once verified and certified as authentic, is placed in the client's medical record. This document serves as a legal and ethical guide for healthcare decisions, especially during critical situations like an exacerbation requiring intubation.

B. This statement suggests a misunderstanding or stigma associated with mental health diagnoses. It's important for the nurse to clarify that experiencing acute stress disorder or any other psychological response to trauma does not equate to being "crazy." This can help reduce stigma and promote understanding that such responses are normal reactions to abnormal situations.
E. This statement indicates a potential misunderstanding about the duration of medication use. Clonazepam, in this case, is prescribed to manage acute symptoms related to anxiety and sleep disturbance. The nurse should explain that medication use for psychological symptoms is typically temporary and part of a broader treatment plan that may include therapy and other interventions aimed at recovery and long-term well-being.
F. While acute stress disorder is a risk factor for developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), not everyone who experiences acute stress disorder will develop PTSD. It's important for the nurse to provide education about the differences between acute stress disorder and PTSD, their symptoms, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and support to prevent long-term psychological difficulties.