Fundamentals of Nursing Q 308
All of the following are crucial needs of the dying client except:
A. Control of pain
B. Preservation of dignity and self-worth
C. Love and belonging
D. Freedom from decision making
Correct Answer: D. Freedom from decision making
Patients should be made aware that they can participate in their end-of-life care in two distinct ways: by actively making decisions at the end of their life and by making decisions about how they believe they would wish to be cared for based on a hypothetical scenario of impairment. The patient should understand that while his or her health care provider may strongly disagree with or object to the patient’s decision to refuse the plan of care, the patient’s decision is constitutionally protected.
Option A: Health care professionals should understand that personal, social, and cultural experiences influence a patient’s definition of pain, health, and illness, and responses to pain vary among individuals and cultural groups.3 A patient’s reaction to pain is influenced by his or her individual perception of it, and the perception of pain reflects his or her attitude toward pain and characteristic way of responding.
Option B: Two key factors which influence the preservation of dignity at the end of life are promoting self-respect and treating the patient with respect; but how are these translated in practice into palliative care? Most end-of-life interventions focus predominantly on symptom control, rather than holistic care. Therefore it may be helpful to consider the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients in palliative care settings.
Option C: Regarding emotional needs, a review found that important actions for healthcare professionals providing end-of-life care include communicating, listening, conveying empathy, and involving patients in decision-making 8. Furthermore, good communication between the patient and their partner about their feelings should be promoted.