💊 NCLEX-RN Exam Prep

A competent adult patient with a terminal illness informs the nurse that they wish to discontinue all treatments, including oxygen, and wishes to go home. The family strongly objects, stating, 'You can't let them do this!'. What is the nurse's ethical obligation?

A Encourage the patient to reconsider their decision in light of family wishes.
B Advocate for the patient's right to self-determination and autonomous decision-making.
C Inform the family that the nurse must follow their wishes if they have power of attorney.
D Continue all treatments until a court order is obtained.

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

The nurse's ethical obligation is to uphold the patient's autonomy, allowing competent adults to make informed decisions about their own care, even if family members disagree. The patient's wishes take precedence over family wishes.

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