A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has a hearing aid. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when the client reports hearing a whistling sound from the hearing aid?

Choice A Reason:

"I can't change my mind about the care I will receive once I sign my living will." Is incorrect.

This statement suggests a misconception that signing a living will locks in a permanent decision, whereas advance directives can usually be updated or modified as long as the individual is competent to do so.

Choice B Reason:

"If I want life support, I'll need to sign a separate consent form first." Is incorrect. While the concept of a consent form for specific treatments is relevant, it might not fully reflect the broader scope of advance directives, which encompass a range of healthcare preferences beyond just life support.

Choice C Reason:

"I'm glad to have the opportunity to choose what kind of care I receive while I still can." Is correct. This statement reflects the understanding that advance directives offer the opportunity to make decisions about the type of care the client wishes to receive or avoid, empowering them to express their preferences while they are still able to do so.

Choice D Reason:

"Once I fill out my living will, there will be a 1-month delay before it is legally binding." Is incorrect. There isn't typically a standardized waiting period before an advance directive becomes legally binding. The legal validity and activation of advance directives vary by region, but they usually become effective immediately upon completion unless stated otherwise or specific requirements apply.

Choice A Reason:

"I'm sure it's nothing serious and their appetite will return soon." Is incorrect. This response dismisses the concern without addressing the underlying issue. It might overlook potential reasons for the lack of appetite and could lead to neglecting a serious problem.

Given the concern about the client not eating, the most appropriate response for the nurse to make would be:

Choice B Reason:

"Tell me more about what happens at mealtime." Is correct. This response encourages the child to share specific details about the mealtime routine, any challenges, or reasons behind the lack of eating. It allows the nurse to gather more information, identify potential issues, and offer appropriate guidance or interventions. Understanding the context surrounding the eating habits can help determine the best approach to address the situation effectively.

Choice C Reason:

"Why do you think they're not eating?" is incorrect. While it encourages discussion, this response puts the responsibility on the child to provide explanations that they might not fully understand or be equipped to articulate. It's essential for the nurse to gather information but in a more supportive and guiding manner.

Choice D Reason:

"They may need a feeding tube." Is incorrect. Jumping to a conclusion about a feeding tube without gathering more information or exploring other possibilities could alarm the child unnecessarily. This response could also create unnecessary worry for the child and the family without assessing the situation comprehensively.