A physician orders a nasogastric (NG) tube for a young adult diagnosed with end-stage ovarian cancer and suspected of having a bowel obstruction. The newly hired nurse explains the procedure and rationale for NG tube placement. The client refuses to consent to NG tube placement, stating, "I would rather keep vomiting than have the tube in my nose." Following the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics for Nurses, what should the nurse do next?
Delegate the NG tube placement to a more experienced nurse.
Make a referral to Social Services related to body image disturbance.
Seek the client's spouse for consent to the procedure.
Document the client's wishes and notify the physician.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason : Delegating the NG tube placement to a more experienced nurse does not address the client's refusal of the procedure. The nurse must respect the client's autonomy and decision-making rights.
Choice B reason : While a referral to Social Services may be appropriate in some cases, it does not directly address the immediate concern of the client's refusal of the NG tube placement.
Choice C reason : Seeking consent from the client's spouse is not appropriate as the client is competent and has the right to refuse treatment. The client's autonomy must be respected.
Choice D reason : Documenting the client's wishes and notifying the physician is the correct action. The nurse must respect the client's right to refuse treatment and communicate this decision to the physician so that alternative management can be considered.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : A sore throat is a common side effect of radiation therapy to the neck area, particularly for cancer of the larynx. The radiation can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat and laryngeal tissues, leading to pain and discomfort when swallowing¹⁵. This side effect can be managed with pain relief medications and dietary adjustments to include softer foods and liquids.
Choice B reason : Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when radiation damages the salivary glands, reducing saliva production. This can lead to difficulties in speaking, tasting, chewing, and swallowing, as well as an increased risk of dental problems¹³. Patients undergoing radiation therapy are often advised to stay hydrated and may be prescribed saliva substitutes or stimulants.
Choice C reason : Radiation to the neck might damage the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism. Symptoms of thyroid problems due to radiation can include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and having dry skin or hair³. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended for patients who have received radiation therapy in the neck area.
Choice D reason : Lymphedema is swelling that can occur when radiation therapy affects the lymph nodes and vessels, impeding the flow of lymph fluid. In the context of neck radiation, this can lead to swelling in the neck and face³. Management includes physical therapy, compression garments, and careful skin care to prevent infection.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason : Having the client floss 4 times daily is not typically recommended during chemotherapy because their gums may be more prone to bleeding due to a decrease in platelets, which is a common side effect of chemotherapy¹. Instead, gentle oral care is advised to prevent damage to the oral mucosa.
Choice B reason : Having the client swish with commercial mouthwash before therapy is not generally recommended because many commercial mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can be irritating to the mucous membranes and may exacerbate chemotherapy-induced mucositis¹. Instead, a saline rinse or a prescribed mouthwash without alcohol may be used to help manage oral hygiene during chemotherapy.
Choice C reason : Telling the client to expect dark stools following chemotherapy could be misleading. While some chemotherapy drugs can cause changes in stool color, dark stools can also indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which requires immediate medical attention¹. Therefore, patients should be instructed to report any significant changes in stool color to their healthcare provider.
Choice D reason : Administering an antiemetic prior to the procedure is a standard practice to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy¹. Antiemetics are medications that can help control these common side effects, improving the patient's comfort and ability to tolerate the treatment.
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