A 45-year-old man is brought to the emergency department following a serious motor vehicle collision on a California interstate highway. Despite all attempts to save him, his condition does not improve. The physician caring for him believes that he is brain dead. On examination, the patient's temperature is $36.7 \mathrm{C}(98 \mathrm{~F})$ and blood pressure is $104 / 60 \mathrm{~mm} \mathrm{Hg}$. He is on mechanical ventilation. Neurologic examination is consistent with brain death. Laboratory and imaging studies are not suggestive of a reversible cause. Apnea testing shows no spontaneous breathing. In accordance with local regulations, a second physician confirms the diagnosis of brain death. The patient's family understands the prognosis. Unfortunately, the patient does not have an advanced directive or durable medical power of attorney. Which of the following steps is legally necessary to remove this patient from the ventilator?

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Ethics and Legal Issues in Healthcare Questions

Question 1 of 5

A 45-year-old man is brought to the emergency department following a serious motor vehicle collision on a California interstate highway. Despite all attempts to save him, his condition does not improve. The physician caring for him believes that he is brain dead. On examination, the patient's temperature is $36.7 \mathrm{C}(98 \mathrm{~F})$ and blood pressure is $104 / 60 \mathrm{~mm} \mathrm{Hg}$. He is on mechanical ventilation. Neurologic examination is consistent with brain death. Laboratory and imaging studies are not suggestive of a reversible cause. Apnea testing shows no spontaneous breathing. In accordance with local regulations, a second physician confirms the diagnosis of brain death. The patient's family understands the prognosis. Unfortunately, the patient does not have an advanced directive or durable medical power of attorney. Which of the following steps is legally necessary to remove this patient from the ventilator?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Brain death is a legal definition of death; no further steps are required to discontinue ventilation.

Question 2 of 5

The PA state board of nursing is what type of law?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Regulatory law refers to a body of laws and regulations that govern the activities and practices of specific industries or professions. In this case, the PA state board of nursing is responsible for regulating and overseeing the practice of nursing in the state of Pennsylvania. Therefore, it falls under the category of regulatory law.

Question 3 of 5

The person or government bringing a lawsuit against another party.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A plaintiff is the person or government entity that initiates a lawsuit against another party. They are the ones who bring the case to court and seek a legal remedy or compensation for a perceived wrongdoing or harm caused by the defendant. The plaintiff is responsible for presenting evidence and arguments to support their claim and convince the court to rule in their favor.

Question 4 of 5

A standard or rule of conduct that is established and enforced by the government as a means of protecting the public.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A law is a standard or rule of conduct that is established and enforced by the government to protect the public. It serves as a framework for maintaining order, resolving disputes, and promoting justice in society. Laws provide guidelines for acceptable behavior and help ensure the safety and well-being of individuals and communities.

Question 5 of 5

Identify the third step in the MORAL decision-making model.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: MORAL is an acronym - M, Massage the dilemma; O, Outline the options; R, Resolve the dilemma; A, Act by applying the chosen option; L, Look back and evaluate.

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