An elderly male patient in his early 70s is admitted to the emergency department due to a COPD exacerbation.
The patient is having difficulty breathing and the healthcare team is preparing for endotracheal intubation.
The patient’s wife, who is 30 years younger, asks the nurse to halt the procedure and presents the nurse with a copy of the patient’s living will.
What should the nurse’s next step be?

Choice A rationale

In a patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure who is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest, the rhythm of the apical pulse should be prioritized. This is because changes in heart rhythm can indicate worsening heart failure or other serious cardiac conditions.

Choice B rationale

While the volume of pedal pulses can provide information about peripheral circulation, it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.

Choice C rationale

The degree of skin elasticity can provide information about hydration status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.

Choice D rationale

The length of capillary refill can provide information about peripheral circulation and overall cardiovascular status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.

Choice A rationale

While substituting natural fruit juices for carbonated drinks can be a healthy dietary change, it is not directly related to the patient’s reported symptoms of severe pain and inability to bear weight on the right ankle.

Choice B rationale

Avoiding the consumption of wine, beer, and coffee can have various health benefits, but it is not directly related to the patient’s current symptoms. Furthermore, there is no indication in the patient’s history that these beverages are contributing to the patient’s condition.

Choice C rationale

Using an electric heating pad when pain is at its worst can provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue causing the pain. Additionally, heat therapy is not typically recommended for acute gout attacks, which could be a potential cause of the patient’s symptoms given their history of gouty arthritis.

Choice D rationale

Encouraging active range of motion can help to limit stiffness and improve joint function, which could potentially alleviate the patient’s pain and improve their ability to bear weight on the right ankle. This advice is relevant to the patient’s symptoms and medical history.