The nurse is addressing a client's questions after admission to the hospital. What is an accurate description of a living will?

A. Be available to the client: This is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take. The client's question reflects existential distress and a search for meaning in the face of suffering. Being available to listen to the client's concerns, offering emotional support, and providing a safe space for the client to express their feelings can be comforting and therapeutic. The nurse should demonstrate empathy, validate the client's emotions, and encourage open communication without imposing personal beliefs or judgments.

B. Call the physician for an antianxiety medication: While the client may be experiencing anxiety or distress, immediately resorting to medication is not the most appropriate response to the client's existential question. Antianxiety medication may provide temporary relief of symptoms but does not address the underlying spiritual or existential distress. It is essential for the nurse to explore the client's concerns and provide holistic support rather than solely relying on pharmacological interventions.

C. Advise the client to pray for answers: This response imposes the nurse's religious or spiritual beliefs onto the client and may not be appropriate for individuals who do not share the same beliefs. It is essential for the nurse to respect the client's autonomy and beliefs while providing support and guidance. Instead of advising the client to pray, the nurse should focus on active listening, empathy, and providing nonjudgmental support.

D. Share personal religious beliefs with the client: Sharing personal religious beliefs with the client is not appropriate in this situation. Doing so may impose the nurse's beliefs onto the client, which can be perceived as intrusive or insensitive. It is essential for the nurse to maintain professional boundaries and respect the client's autonomy, beliefs, and preferences. The focus should be on providing empathetic support and addressing the client's emotional and existential concerns.

A. 17-year-old who has just had an ankle cast applied: While constipation may occur due to reduced mobility after having an ankle cast applied, teaching about the hazards of straining during bowel movements is not the priority for this client. The immediate concern may be related to cast care and mobility.

B. 60-year-old recovering from a heart attack: This client is recovering from a heart attack, and straining during bowel movements can increase intra-abdominal pressure and potentially lead to complications such as vagal stimulation, which may trigger arrhythmias or further stress the heart. Therefore, teaching about the hazards of straining during bowel movements is essential for this client to prevent complications and promote cardiac safety.

C. 80-year-old admitted for an infected tooth: While constipation may occur as a side effect of certain medications or due to decreased oral intake, teaching about straining during bowel movements is not the immediate priority for this client, given the primary reason for admission is an infected tooth. However, if constipation becomes a concern during the admission, it can be addressed accordingly.

D. 28-year-old new mother of twins: While postpartum mothers may experience constipation due to various factors such as changes in hormone levels, reduced mobility after delivery, and opioid use for pain management, teaching about the hazards of straining during bowel movements may not be the priority compared to other immediate postpartum care needs, such as breastfeeding support, perineal care, and newborn care.