A nurse is caring for a patient who has a valid advance decision refusing a specific life-sustaining treatment. The patient is now unable to communicate. Which action is most appropriate?
Correct answer: A. Follow the documented decision and inform the healthcare team
- A. Follow the documented decision and inform the healthcare team
- B. Ask the family to decide whether the document should be followed
- C. Provide the treatment because the patient cannot confirm the refusal
- D. Ignore the document until a court gives the nurse written permission
Explanation
A valid advance decision expresses the patient's previously stated wishes when the patient lacks capacity. The nurse should follow the applicable plan and communicate with the healthcare team rather than substitute personal or family preferences.
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About Nursing Ethics
Nursing ethics examines autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, fidelity, veracity, confidentiality and respect for dignity. It covers informed consent, patient advocacy, privacy, refusal of treatment, end-of-life decisions and ethical dilemmas, while distinguishing ethical duties from legal requirements and personal beliefs.
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