The family members of an older adult client are expressing disagreement over whether the client should have surgery that is recommended by the provider. The oldest adult child has durable power of attorney. The client is oriented to person, place, and time. Which of the following people has the legal authority to make the care decision?
The partner
The oldest adult child
The client
The provider
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: The partner does not have the legal authority to make the care decision for the client, unless they are designated as the health care proxy or surrogate. The partner may have a personal or emotional interest in the client's well-being, but they cannot override the client's wishes or rights.
Choice B reason: The oldest adult child does not have the legal authority to make the care decision for the client, even though they have durable power of attorney. The durable power of attorney only becomes effective when the client is incapacitated or unable to make their own decisions. Since the client is oriented to person, place, and time, they are presumed to have the mental capacity to consent or refuse treatment.
Choice C reason: The client has the legal authority to make the care decision for themselves, as long as they are competent and informed. The client has the right to self-determination and autonomy, which means they can choose what is best for their own health and well-being. The client's decision should be respected and honored by the provider and the family members.
Choice D reason: The provider does not have the legal authority to make the care decision for the client, unless there is an emergency or a court order. The provider has the duty to inform the client of the benefits and risks of the surgery, and to obtain the client's consent before proceeding. The provider cannot coerce or force the client to undergo the surgery against their will.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking the provider to delay the client's discharge home for a few more days is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take. This would not address the partner's concerns or the client's needs. It would also increase the risk of hospital-acquired infections and complications for the client.
Choice B reason: Seeking out another family member to assist the client's partner with care is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take. This would not respect the partner's autonomy or the client's wishes. It would also assume that there is another family member who is willing and able to provide care.
Choice C reason: Contacting a case manager to discuss hospice options is the appropriate action for the nurse to take. This would provide the client and the partner with information and support regarding end-of-life care. Hospice care focuses on improving the quality of life and comfort of clients with terminal illnesses and their families.
Choice D reason: Advising the partner to place the client in a long-term care facility is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take. This would not respect the partner's feelings or the client's preferences. It would also imply that the nurse is judging the partner's decision or ability to care for the client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The risk of suicide is the highest priority for the charge nurse to assess. The client has several risk factors for suicide, such as major depressive disorder, medication noncompliance, hopelessness, social isolation, and psychomotor retardation. The charge nurse should evaluate the client's suicidal ideation, intent, and plan, and implement safety measures as needed.
Choice B reason: The risk of dehydration is a lower priority than the risk of suicide. The client may be dehydrated due to decreased fluid intake, but this is not a life-threatening condition. The charge nurse should monitor the client's hydration status and encourage oral fluids as appropriate.
Choice C reason: The risk of infection is a lower priority than the risk of suicide. The client does not have any signs or symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or leukocytosis. The charge nurse should assess the client's vital signs and laboratory results as indicated, but this is not an urgent issue.
Choice D reason: The risk of seizure is a lower priority than the risk of suicide. The client does not have any history or risk factors for seizure, such as epilepsy, head trauma, or drug withdrawal. The charge nurse should observe the client for any abnormal movements or behaviors, but this is not a likely complication.
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