While the nurse is caring for a child with multiple congenital abnorma

QUESTION

While the nurse is caring for a child with multiple congenital abnormalities in the unit, the parents ask that the child remain on life support. Knowing the child has no brain function, what is the nurse’s best action?

1. The nurse should talk to the parents about organ donation.
2. All aspects of the situation should be considered before any action is made.
3. Continue to care for the child regardless of the situation.
4. Discuss the situation with the caretaking team.

ANSWER:

Answer: 3

Rationale: The nurse must continue to provide nursing care for the child regardless of the situation. The ethical implications of the parents’ request will need to be discussed among the team, the ethics committee, and those involved in the child’s care. The nurse would be presumptive to discuss organ donation, since it is still the parents’ wish for the child to be on life support. While it is true that all aspects of the situation should be considered, the nurse must provide quality care to the child. The nurse most likely will be involved in the discussion, but the priority is to care for the child.