Question of the Week # 1

1.A patient has completed a living will stating that he does not want intubation, mechanical ventilation or artificial nutrition and hydration carried out should he become unable to communicate his preferences related to medical care. However, the patient’s adult children have expressed their opposition to the patient’s wishes. Which are appropriate nursing actions? Choose all that apply

A. Notify the patient’s physician, the nursing supervisor, and the risk manager

B. Explain to the patient’s family that the living will cannot be changed at this point

C. Encourage the family to discuss their feelings to try to resolve this issue

D. Request a consult with the facility ethics committee if needed

E. Advise the patient to just go along with the wishes of his adult children.