Question

During the morning assessment, a nurse notes that a client is awake, alert, and has severe dyspnea; respirations are 34 breaths/minute and labored. Oxygen saturation is 79% on 3 L of oxygen. The nurse notes that the client's chart includes a living will. When considering best practice, the nurse should

Answer 1

Answer: When considering the best practice, the nurse should "initiate potentially life-prolonging treatment unless the client refuses."

Explanation:

Since the patient is awake, alert, and has severe dyspnea life-prolonging treatment should be initiated unless the patient refuses. A living will not take effect until the patient is unable to make their own decisions. A nurse should never withhold treatment when the patient is alert and oriented.