A nurse is caring for a client who has an end-stage lung disease. The client requests not to be resuscitated if their condition worsens. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Discharge the client to hospice care: While hospice care may be appropriate for clients with end-stage disease, discharge to hospice is not the immediate nursing action in response to a DNR request. The priority is to acknowledge the client’s wishes and ensure the DNR order is properly documented. B. Place a sign with "Do Not Resuscitate" outside the client's room: A visible sign is used after a formal DNR order is entered into the medical record. Placing a sign prematurely without provider authorization or documentation does not legally protect the client’s wishes. C. Explain to the client they can change their mind at any time: It is important to respect client autonomy while clarifying that a DNR order is revocable. Providing this information supports informed decision-making and ensures the client understands that their preferences can be updated at any time. D. Obtain consent from the family for the change to the plan of care: The client’s decision regarding resuscitation takes priority if they have decision-making capacity. Family consent is not required for a competent adult to make a DNR decision.