A nurse is caring for a client who asks for information about advance directives and states, “I want to make sure my wishes are respected.” Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A reason: Amniocentesis involves needle insertion through the uterine wall, which can irritate the uterus and trigger contractions, risking preterm labor at 33 weeks. Monitoring contractions is vital to detect early labor signs, enabling interventions like tocolytics to delay delivery. This protects the premature fetus, ensuring better outcomes by maintaining pregnancy until closer to term.
Choice B reason: Vomiting is not a typical amniocentesis complication. The procedure is localized to the uterus, with minimal systemic effects. Nausea may occur from anxiety, but vomiting is rare and not a priority for monitoring. Focus remains on uterine and fetal complications, like contractions or fluid leakage, which directly impact pregnancy safety and outcomes.
Choice C reason: Hypertension is not directly linked to amniocentesis. The procedure does not typically affect maternal cardiovascular function, as it’s a localized intervention. Monitoring for hypertension is more relevant for conditions like preeclampsia. Post-amniocentesis, the priority is uterine activity and fetal distress, not blood pressure, making this an irrelevant complication to monitor.
Choice D reason: Polyuria is not associated with amniocentesis, as the procedure does not impact renal function or fluid balance. The focus is on complications like contractions, bleeding, or amniotic fluid leakage, which pose direct risks to the pregnancy. Monitoring polyuria is unnecessary, as it does not reflect the procedure’s physiological effects or risks.

Choice A reason: Financial power of attorney manages monetary decisions, not health care, unless specified as a health care surrogate. Advance directives guide health decisions, but this role is distinct, making this statement incorrect under the Patient Self-Determination Act’s provisions.
Choice B reason: The Patient Self-Determination Act ensures clients’ rights to refuse treatment, even against provider recommendations, promoting autonomy through advance directives. This legal protection applies in Medicare/Medicaid facilities, making it the correct principle for end-of-life decision-making in this context.
Choice C reason: Advance directives can be changed by a competent client, even if notarized, as the Act supports ongoing autonomy. Stating they cannot be altered is incorrect, as flexibility is a core feature, making this an inaccurate representation of the law.
Choice D reason: The eldest adult child cannot change advance directives unless designated as a surrogate. The Act prioritizes the client’s documented wishes or appointed decision-maker, not family hierarchy, making this statement incorrect and misaligned with legal requirements.