You are on the scene where an 80-year-old woman is unresponsive and has shallow, snoring respirations. The patient's husband wants you to do nothing for the patient, but her daughter is crying and pleading with you to do something to help her mother. The patient lacks a DNR. The husband insists that his wife would not want to be "kept alive by machines." Which of the following is the most ethical course of action?
A) Follow the husband's wishes, because he has the legal authority to make the decision while the daughter does not.
B) Explain to the husband that you do not yet know what is wrong with his wife, that it may be something readily treatable, and that without a written order from her physician you cannot withhold treatment.
C) Consider how you would feel if it was your spouse or parent, and ask yourself what you would want done.
D) Find out more about the patient's medical history in an attempt to determine if resuscitative measures would be futile.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As a healthcare provider, it is your duty to provide care to the patient, especially if their condition is treatable. Even if the husband wants nothing to be done, as long as the patient does not have a DNR, it is the responsibility of the healthcare provider to provide necessary treatments. It is important to explain to the husband that you need a written order from the physician to withhold treatment. Additionally, the patient's daughter is also advocating for her mother, further emphasizing the need for care. It is important to consider the patient's wishes, but in the absence of a DNR, the healthcare provider should provide appropriate treatment until further orders are obtained.

You Are on the Scene Where an 80-Year-Old Woman Is