A competent older adult patient has a living will stating that resuscitation and heroic life support measures are to be avoided. The family members are not supportive of this directive. Which action by the nurse is the most appropriate?
1. Place the document on the chart.
2. Contact the Social Services department.
3. Notify the hospital attorney.
4. Explain to the patient that the conflict could invalidate the document.
Correct Answer: 1
The patient is competent, and the wishes of the patient must take priority. The document should first be placed on the chart and the physician notified. If there are concerns about the authenticity of the document, the Social Services department, hospital attorney, or unit supervisor will need to be contacted. A lack of support by the family does not invalidate the document.
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