The palliative care nurse receives a consult for a terminally ill client in the intensive care unit (ICU). The client is weak, mouth breathing, and refusing anything to eat or drink. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Report any change in urine color is not a primary intervention in palliative care for this client. While monitoring urine output is important in assessing hydration status, it does not directly address the client's comfort, which is a key goal in palliative care. B. Keep mucous membranes moist is a critical intervention for this client. Mouth breathing and the refusal of fluids can lead to dry mucous membranes, causing discomfort. Regular oral care using swabs or rinses can alleviate dryness, improving the client's comfort and quality of life. C. Record the client's daily weight is unnecessary in this situation. Monitoring weight is typically relevant for clients whose fluid balance or nutritional status is being managed, which is not a focus in palliative care for a terminally ill client. D. Maintain in high Fowler's position is not the priority in this scenario. While positioning may be adjusted to support breathing, the focus should remain on comfort, such as alleviating the dryness associated with mouth breathing.