A client with terminal cancer is dying. For the past several days, the client has refused food and fluids, and pushes the caregiver's hands away when attempts are made to feed the client or offer any kind of fluid. The family is considering placing a gastrostomy tube because they feel the client is "starving to death". The nurse should:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should honour the client's refusal of food and fluids and help the family come to terms with the situation. The family needs to understand that refusing food and fluids is a natural part of the dying process and that placing a gastrostomy tube may cause more discomfort and prolong the dying process without improving quality of life. The nurse can provide education and support to both the client and the family during this difficult time. Taking the case to the hospital's ethics committee or talking to the physician to move forward with the family's wishes may result in unnecessary medical interventions and may not align with the client's wishes. Honouring the family's wishes and having them sign a consent form also goes against the client's stated wishes and autonomy.

A Client with Terminal Cancer Is Dying