A nurse is reviewing home care with a client who has multiple sclerosis. Which of the following precautions should the nurse recommend to promote client safety?

Choice A reason: Explaining the implications of a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) status ensures the client understands that no CPR or intubation will occur if their condition deteriorates. This supports informed consent and autonomy, clarifying the scope of DNR to prevent misunderstandings. It respects the client’s decision-making capacity, ensuring their wishes align with end-of-life care preferences.
Choice B reason: Placing a “Do Not Resuscitate” sign outside the room breaches confidentiality under HIPAA, risking unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information. DNR status is communicated via medical records or wristbands. This action is inappropriate, as it does not contribute to implementing the client’s wishes and violates privacy standards, making it an incorrect response.
Choice C reason: Obtaining family consent is unnecessary for a competent client’s DNR request, as autonomy rests with the client. If decisionally capable, their wishes override family input. The nurse’s role is to support the client’s decision, not seek family approval, unless the client is incapacitated, which is not indicated, making this action inappropriate.
Choice D reason: Documenting the DNR request in the medical record ensures the care team follows the client’s wishes, preventing unwanted interventions. Accurate documentation communicates code status, supports legal and ethical standards, and ensures continuity of care. This is critical for aligning treatment with the client’s end-of-life preferences, making it a necessary action.

Choice A reason: Encouraging a final hemodialysis treatment contradicts the client’s advance directives, which refuse life-sustaining treatments. Respecting autonomy is paramount, and persuading the client undermines their decision, making this action unethical and inappropriate in this end-of-life scenario.
Choice B reason: Contacting the family to discuss the decision is unnecessary unless the client is incapacitated, which is not indicated. The client’s advance directives guide care, and family input is secondary to the client’s wishes, making this action incorrect and irrelevant.
Choice C reason: Discussing treatment options with the surrogate is inappropriate, as the client is competent and has clear advance directives refusing treatment. The surrogate’s role applies only if the client cannot decide, making this action misaligned with the client’s autonomy and directives.
Choice D reason: Discussing discharge options respects the client’s refusal of treatment and advance directives, focusing on palliative care or home arrangements. This supports autonomy and aligns with end-of-life care principles, ensuring comfort and dignity, making it the correct action.