The spouse of a terminally ill patient asks why antibiotics are being prescribed for an infection when the patient is going to die anyway. How should the nurse respond?
A) "The infection could cause discomfort."
B) "The antibiotics will add days to the patient's life."
C) "Permitting the patient to die is a form of assisted suicide."
D) "I'll ask the physician why the medication was prescribed."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Antibiotics can be used in terminally ill patients to manage symptoms and prevent discomfort from infections, even when the primary goal is not to prolong life. This approach aligns with palliative care principles, focusing on the quality of life and symptom management.

The Spouse of a Terminally Ill Patient Asks Why Antibiotics