A charge nurse is teaching a group of nurses about the purpose of a living will. Which of the following information about living wills should the charge nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A reason: This statement is correct, as hospice care provides comprehensive and compassionate care for clients who have a life expectancy of six months or less. Hospice care involves a team of health care professionals, such as physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers, who address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the client and their family.

Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospice care is not intended for clients at various stages of chronic illness. Hospice care is only for clients who are terminally ill and have decided to forego curative or aggressive treatments.

Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospice care does not prolong the life expectancy of clients who are terminally ill. Hospice care focuses on improving the quality of life and comfort of the client, not on extending their life span.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as hospital access is still available for clients who are in hospice care. Hospice care can be provided in various settings, such as the client's home, a hospice facility, a nursing home, or a hospital. Clients who are in hospice care can still be admitted to the hospital if they need acute care or symptom management.

Choice A reason: Administering IV nitroglycerin to a client who is experiencing chest pain is not an appropriate assignment for the float nurse, as it requires advanced cardiac knowledge and skills that the nurse may not have. The charge nurse should assign this task to a nurse who is experienced in the emergency department.

Choice B reason: Completing a SAD PERSONS assessment scale for a client who has attempted suicide is not an appropriate assignment for the float nurse, as it requires mental health expertise and training that the nurse may not have. The charge nurse should assign this task to a nurse who is qualified in psychiatric nursing.

Choice C reason: Setting up a trauma room for an incoming client who was in a motor-vehicle crash is not an appropriate assignment for the float nurse, as it requires emergency preparedness and competence that the nurse may not have. The charge nurse should assign this task to a nurse who is familiar with the trauma protocols and equipment.

Choice D reason: Performing a urinary catheterization for a client who has experienced a cerebrovascular accident is an appropriate assignment for the float nurse, as it is a basic nursing skill that the nurse should have learned and practiced in the medical-surgical unit. The charge nurse should assign this task to the float nurse as long as the nurse is comfortable and confident with the procedure.