Which of the following statements best reflects how the nurse would describe an advance directive to a patient?

Question

Which of the following statements best reflects how the nurse would describe an advance directive to a patient?

a. "This document determines whether you want CPR when if you become critically ill"

b. "An advance directive explains what medical interventions you do and do not want as you near the end of life"

c. "It clearly tells your physician if you want to be intubated or not"

d. "This document, which clearly states your end of life wishes, cannot be altered or changed once it is put into place"

Answer 1

Option b. "An advance directive explains what medical interventions you do and do not want as you near the end of life" best reflects how the nurse would describe an advance directive to a patient.

Rationale:

a. This statement is not entirely accurate because advance directives can also apply to situations beyond critical illness, such as chronic conditions, and they can cover more than just CPR.

b. This option accurately captures the essence of an advance directive by explaining that it outlines the medical interventions the patient does and does not want, especially as they approach the end of life. This is important because it allows the patient to have control over their healthcare decisions and ensures their wishes are respected.

c. This statement is too specific and does not encompass all the aspects of an advance directive. While an advance directive may include intubation preferences, it can also cover other interventions.

d. This statement is not entirely accurate because advance directives can be updated or changed at any time, as long as the patient has the capacity to do so. It is important to emphasize this fact to the patient to avoid any misconceptions about their control over their healthcare decisions.