A health care provider asks the nurse about an older adult client's durable power of attorney (POA) because consent is needed for a medically necessary invasive procedure. The client has end-stage disease, is intubated, and is on mechanical ventilation. Which steps should the nurse implement?
Assist with obtaining informed consent from the client.
Refer to the client's advance directive for a name.
Determine the client's inability to make reasonable decisions.
Use the oral trail-making test to measure cognitive function.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Assist with obtaining informed consent from the client.
Explanation: Informed consent is a critical aspect of healthcare procedures, but it requires the patient to have the capacity to understand and make decisions. In this scenario, the client is intubated and on mechanical ventilation, which might compromise their ability to communicate effectively. If the client lacks capacity, obtaining consent from the durable power of attorney (POA) is more appropriate.
B. Refer to the client's advance directive for a name.
Explanation: Advance directives, including the durable POA, provide guidance on a person's wishes for healthcare decisions when they are unable to communicate. However, the advance directive may not always specify a particular person's name for decisions related to specific medical interventions. The key consideration in this situation is to determine the current decision-making capacity and involve the appropriate decision-maker if needed.
C. Determine the client's inability to make reasonable decisions.
Explanation: This is the correct answer. In this scenario, the nurse should assess the client's capacity to make decisions. If the client lacks capacity, the durable POA can be activated to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the client. Capacity involves the ability to understand relevant information, appreciate the consequences of decisions, and communicate a choice.
D. Use the oral trail-making test to measure cognitive function.
Explanation: The oral trail-making test is a cognitive screening tool, but it may not be suitable in this critical care scenario with an intubated and mechanically ventilated patient. Moreover, the primary concern in this situation is determining the capacity to make healthcare decisions, which requires a more comprehensive evaluation than a specific cognitive function test. The focus should be on decision-making capacity rather than a cognitive assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Four-length rails.
Explanation: Four-length rails fully enclose the bed and can be considered a more restrictive measure. They may be used when a restraint order is in place, but for an alert patient without such an order, less restrictive alternatives are preferred.
B. One-length rail.
Explanation: Using one-length rails can be a less restrictive alternative when a patient is at high risk for falling. The use of one side rail allows for some protection against falls without fully restraining the patient. This approach helps maintain the patient's mobility and autonomy while still providing a safety measure.
C. Two full-length rails.
Explanation: While using two full-length rails is less restrictive than four-length rails, it is still more restrictive than using only one side rail. The goal is to balance fall prevention with the patient's autonomy.
D. No side rails.
Explanation: Using no side rails may not provide adequate protection for an alert patient at high risk for falling. While avoiding restraints is essential, implementing at least one side rail is a reasonable compromise to enhance safety without fully restricting the patient's movement.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Use of drugs results in minimal improvement in appetite and weight gain and can have some serious side effects."
Explanation: It is important for the nurse to provide accurate and balanced information about the use of drugs to stimulate appetite. While there are medications available that may be prescribed to improve appetite in certain situations, it is crucial to convey that the effectiveness of such drugs is limited, and they can also have potential serious side effects. Additionally, the decision to use appetite-stimulating drugs should be carefully considered, taking into account the individual's overall health, medical conditions, and potential risks associated with the medications.
B. "There are no drugs that impact appetite or weight gain."
Explanation: This statement is not accurate, as there are medications that may impact appetite and weight gain. However, the effectiveness and appropriateness of such medications should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
C. "These drugs are not permitted to be used in a long term care facility."
Explanation: This statement is not accurate. The use of appetite-stimulating drugs may be permitted in long-term care facilities, but their use is typically based on individual assessment and consideration of potential risks and benefits.
D. "Yes, there are some very effective drugs out there. Your mother should be on one of them."
Explanation: This statement oversimplifies the decision-making process and may not provide adequate information about the potential risks and benefits of appetite-stimulating drugs. The decision to use such drugs should be made in consultation with the healthcare team, considering the individual's specific circumstances.
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