The nurse is caring for a terminally ill patient who will probably die within the next 2 weeks. What is the priority nursing intervention?
a. Encouraging the patient to limit fluid intake to minimize congestion
b. Limiting the use of pain medications so that the patient can visit with family
c. Helping the patient to identify and complete desired tasks and activities
d. Completing funeral arrangements with the patient's next of kin
ANS: C
The priority intervention for the nurse at this time is to help the patient identify and complete desired tasks and activities while the patient is still able to do so. Pain management is a high priority at this time, so analgesics should never be limited unless requested by the patient. The patient can drink as much or as little fluid as desired.
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