A hospice patient is unable to tolerate food or fluids and has advance directives that indicate that he does not want IV fluids or tube feedings if he is unable to take oral feedings. His family is concerned that he will be very uncomfortable without food or fluids. The nurse should tell them that:
IV fluids or tube feeding would likely make the patient more uncomfortable, and dehydration has been shown to decrease pain and discomfort.
Once the patient is unconscious, his health care proxy can order IV fluids or tube feedings to prevent dehydration.
IV fluids or a tube feeding would make the patient much more comfortable, and they should try to talk him into accepting them.
dehydration is painful, and medication can be given to overcome any pain.
The Correct Answer is A
A. This response aligns with best practices in hospice care, which prioritize comfort and quality of life for terminally ill patients. Dehydration is a common occurrence at the end of life and is generally not associated with discomfort when managed appropriately. IV fluids or tube feedings may cause discomfort, contribute to fluid overload, or lead to complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
B. While the healthcare proxy may have the authority to make decisions on behalf of the patient, the focus should be on honoring the patient's wishes as expressed in advance directives. If the patient has clearly indicated a preference against IV fluids or tube feedings in their advance directives, this should be respected.
C. Encouraging the family to try to talk the patient into accepting IV fluids or tube feedings goes against the principles of patient autonomy and informed decision-making. The decision regarding medical interventions should be based on the patient's preferences and comfort.
D. While dehydration can be uncomfortable in some circumstances, providing adequate symptom management, including pain medication, is essential in hospice care. However, IV fluids or tube feedings are not typically used to manage dehydration in patients who are at the end of life, as they may not improve comfort and can lead to complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. and B. Both options involve getting the patient out of bed for specified periods during the day to prevent excessive sleep during the day and wakefulness at night. However, these options may not align with the patient's preferences and comfort.
C. This option respects the patient's autonomy and acknowledges his preference to remain in bed due to feeling tired and weak. It also recognizes that comfort is a priority in end-of-life care. The nurse will assess the patient's strength and desire to get out of bed but will permit him to remain in bed if he chooses, as that is his position of comfort.
D. Leaving the patient in bed while encouraging active exercises may be physically demanding for the patient and may not be appropriate, especially considering the patient's terminal condition and desire to remain in bed.
Correct Answer is A,D,E,B,C
Explanation
Sequence of Steps:
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A. Make sure the provider has certified the client’s death
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D. Verify client’s organ and tissue donation status
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E. Remove medical equipment from the client
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B. Cleanse the body while adhering to body fluid precautions
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C. Attach identification tags to the body
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