What should nurses do to ensure all health care team members are aware of a client's advance directives?

What should nurses do to ensure all health care team members are aware of a client's advance directives?

• A. Inform All Members of the Health Care Team
• B. Inform Only the Physician
• C. Inform Only the Family
• D. Inform No One

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is ensuring patient wishes are honored by the whole care team through effective communication. Advance directives state what medical interventions a person wants or does not want if they can’t speak for themselves, so making sure every member of the health care team knows these preferences prevents unwanted treatments and supports the patient’s autonomy. The nurse’s role is to ensure the directive is documented in the medical record, placed in a readily accessible part of the chart or electronic record, and communicated to all providers involved in care—physicians, nurses, social workers, and others—so decisions across shifts and settings align with the patient’s wishes. This collaborative approach protects the patient, reduces confusion, and maintains consistency in care, especially during transitions or emergencies.

The main idea being tested is ensuring patient wishes are honored by the whole care team through effective communication. Advance directives state what medical interventions a person wants or does not want if they can’t speak for themselves, so making sure every member of the health care team knows these preferences prevents unwanted treatments and supports the patient’s autonomy. The nurse’s role is to ensure the directive is documented in the medical record, placed in a readily accessible part of the chart or electronic record, and communicated to all providers involved in care—physicians, nurses, social workers, and others—so decisions across shifts and settings align with the patient’s wishes. This collaborative approach protects the patient, reduces confusion, and maintains consistency in care, especially during transitions or emergencies.