A hospice nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness and reports severe pain. After the nurse administers the prescribed opioid and benzodiazepine, the client becomes somnolent and difficult to arouse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a. A client is refusing care from assistive personnel of the opposite gender:

This situation involves the client's right to refuse care based on personal preferences or cultural beliefs. While it requires attention and respect for the client's wishes, it may not pose an immediate risk to patient care or staff safety.

b. No transport assistance is available to take a client to physical therapy:

This can be resolved by contacting the transportation department or finding an alternative solution, but it is not a critical issue that requires immediate attention.

c. Two nurses had a heated disagreement about a scheduling issue:

While workplace conflicts should be addressed to promote a positive work environment, a heated disagreement about a scheduling issue may not pose an immediate threat to patient care. However, if the disagreement escalates or affects staff morale, it could impact unit functioning and require intervention.

d. Three staff members have called to say they will be absent:

This situation has the most immediate impact on the overall functioning of the unit. Staffing shortages can affect patient care and safety, so it is crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure adequate coverage and maintain the quality of care.

a. "You must choose a member of your family to serve as your health care proxy":

This response is not accurate. While family members are often chosen as healthcare proxies, the client is not required to select a family member. The most important consideration is choosing someone who understands the client's healthcare wishes and is willing and able to advocate for them. The nurse should emphasize the importance of selecting a trusted individual, whether they are a family member or not.

b. "A health care proxy can make decisions for you when you are unable to do so":

This response is accurate. A healthcare proxy is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone else to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so due to illness or incapacity. The nurse should explain the role of a healthcare proxy in advocating for the client's wishes and ensuring that their healthcare preferences are honored.

c. "You should appoint a health care proxy before undergoing an invasive procedure":

While it is advisable for clients to have advance directives, including a healthcare proxy, in place before undergoing any medical procedure, this response does not fully address the client's question. The timing of appointing a healthcare proxy should not be limited to specific medical procedures but should be based on the client's readiness to make such decisions and their recognition of the importance of having a designated advocate for their healthcare needs.

d. "It is necessary for an attorney to approve your health care proxy":

This response is not accurate. While it may be helpful to seek legal advice when creating advance directives, including a healthcare proxy, it is not a requirement for an attorney to approve the document. The client can typically complete a healthcare proxy form themselves, following the legal requirements of their jurisdiction. However, consulting with an attorney can provide additional guidance and ensure that the document is properly executed.