Chapter 08: Complexity at the End of Life: The Ethical and Legal Challenges Keatings: Ethical & Legal Issues in Canadian Nursing, 4th Edition MULTIPLE CHOICE 1. Which of the following statement best describes assisted suicide? a. It is a form of withdrawal of treatment. b. It is a passive process, and the patient is mentally competent. c. It is an active process, and the patient is mentally incompetent. d. It is an active process, and the patient is mentally competent. ANS: D Feedback A B C D
Incorrect—Assisted suicide does not necessarily involve withdrawal of treatment. Incorrect—This statement does not accurately describe assisted suicide. Incorrect—This statement does not accurately describe assisted suicide. Correct! In assisted suicide, active steps are taken to end the life of a debilitated but mentally competent patient who requests the help of another person.
DIF: Cognitive level: Comprehension 2. Which of the following situation is an example of an ethical dilemma that can arise for a
team on a medical unit while caring for a terminally ill patient who is near death? a. The family wishes that the patient will live longer. b. The family requests intravenous (IV) fluids for hydration of the patient. c. The family requests administration of narcotics for the patient’s pain relief. d. The family refuses to allow the patient’s transfer to a palliative care unit. ANS: B Feedback A B
C D
Incorrect—A family’s wish that a terminally ill patient live longer is not unethical and is a normal aspect of grief and loss. Correct! Hydrating the patient may create respiratory discomfort, potentially prolonging his or her suffering and postponing death; therefore, this request is an example of an ethical dilemma for the nurse and the team. Incorrect—Administering narcotics prescribed for pain management is not unethical. Incorrect—This may conflict with the nurse’s values, but it is not unethical because the patient can still receive palliative care on the medical unit.
DIF: Cognitive level: Synthesis 3. Which of the following activities will help ensure the dignity of older adult clients,
regardless of their capacity? a. Use terminology that older adult clients can understand, such as “diapers.” b. Engage in conversation with older adult clients about their lives.
