The nurse is caring for a patient whose condition has deter iorated and is now not responding to standard treatment. The primary health care provider ca lls for an ethical consultation with the family to discuss potential withdrawal versus aggressivabei rtbr.ceoamtm/teestn t. The nurse understands that applying a model for ethical decision making involves which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Burden versus benefit. In ethical decision-making, considering the burden of treatment on the patient versus the potential benefits is crucial. This involves weighing the risks, benefits, and potential harm of treatment options. Family's wishes (B) and patient's wishes (C) are important factors but may not always align with what is ethically best for the patient. Potential outcomes of treatment options (D) are relevant but do not directly address the ethical dilemma of balancing burden and benefit. Therefore, A is the correct choice as it directly relates to the ethical principles guiding decision-making in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because effective communication ensures that the patient's wishes and values are understood and respected, leading to informed decision-making. It also promotes shared decision-making among the patient, family, and healthcare team, enhancing the quality of care. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while they are important aspects of end-of-life care, they do not address the core element of communication in facilitating meaningful and informed decisions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it aligns with the ethical principle of patient autonomy, which emphasizes the patient's right to make decisions about their own care. Withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments, including nutrition, antibiotics, and blood products, respects the patient's autonomy. This choice also reflects the principle of beneficence, as it aims to prevent unnecessary suffering and respects the patient's wishes. Option B is incorrect because it focuses on pain and anxiety management rather than the broader ethical considerations of withholding life-sustaining treatments. Option C is incorrect because withdrawing life-sustaining treatments while a patient is receiving paralytic agents can pose additional risks and complications, potentially conflicting with the principles of nonmaleficence and beneficence. Option D is incorrect because the primary goal of withdrawing or withholding treatments is not to hasten death but to respect the patient's autonomy and quality of life. This choice does not align with the ethical principles of patient-centered care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: Comfort care is focused on providing relief from suffering and improving quality of life. Step 2: Patient-centered care emphasizes the individual's preferences and values. Step 3: Patient autonomy is a fundamental principle in healthcare decision-making. Step 4: Patients have the right to determine what constitutes comfort care for themselves. Step 5: Therefore, statement C is correct as it aligns with the patient's autonomy and individualized care approach. Summary: - Choice A is incorrect because legal distinctions between withholding and withdrawing treatment may vary. - Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on evaluating procedures rather than the patient's preferences. - Choice D is incorrect as withdrawing life-sustaining treatments is not universally considered euthanasia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because notifying the organ procurement organization (OPO) once the patient has been pronounced brain dead is a requirement to sustain CMS Conditions of Participation. This step ensures that the proper protocols are followed for organ donation. Choice A is incorrect because notifying the OPO of impending death is not a requirement for sustaining CMS Conditions of Participation. Choice B is incorrect because obtaining informed consent for organ donation is not directly related to meeting the requirements of CMS Conditions of Participation. Choice D is incorrect because while evaluating the patient's suitability for organ donation is important, it is not a specific requirement under CMS Conditions of Participation.