A client that was recently diagnosed with a terminal illness asks his

A client that was recently diagnosed with a terminal illness asks his nurse about organ donation. The nurse should:

1. Have the client first discuss the subject with the family
2. Suggest the client delay making a decision at this time
3. Assist the client to obtain the necessary information to make this decision
4. Contact the client’s physician so consent can be obtained from the family

ANSWER

ANS: 3
No topic that a dying client wishes to discuss should be avoided. The nurse should respond to questions openly and honestly. As client advocate, the nurse should assist the client to obtain the necessary information to make this decision. The nurse should provide the client with information in order to make such a decision. Although the nurse may suggest that the client discuss this op-tion after having obtained information, it is up to the client to discuss the subject with the family. The nurse should respect the client and provide the necessary information for him or her to make a decision rather than dismissing the client’s question. It is not necessary to contact the physician or the family for consent for organ donation if the client is capable of making this decision.