Question

A nurse in a cardiologist office is providing CHF (congestive heart failure) teaching to a newly diagnosed client.  The client asks the nurse should he discuss with his family the topic of advance directives.  

3. What is the nurse’s role in advance directives?  

4. Is there a difference between an advance directive and a DNR “do not resuscitate” order?

1. Please explain if YES or NO and why:

Answer 1

No.1.

Nurse’s role in advance directives:-

• The nurse supports the client during the decision-making process as the patient is taking future decisions.
• The nurse needs to provide information regarding the advance directives and what possible choices are available in this.
• The nurse should respect the values of the patient and according to that she should assist the patient in decision making.
• The nurse informs all the possible outcomes and technical terms to the patient which plays a great role in the decision making of client as well as it helps with correct decision making.

No.2

DNR “do not resuscitate” order means do not give cardiopulmonary resuscitation during cardiac arrest or when the heart stops beating.

Advance directive means a prior decision of a client for future medical care and treatment.

• The decision of DNR can be included in the advance directive.
• Sometimes the Decision of DNR can be taken by the family members or doctors according to the chances of recovery and the percentage of disability.
• Sometimes the decision of DNR also taken by some authorities to save medical resources.