A nurse cares for a client with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).The client states,"I do not want to be placed on a mechanical ventilator." How should the nurse respond?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

ALS is an adult-onset upper and lower motor neuron disease characterized by progressive weakness,muscle wasting,and spasticity,eventually leading to paralysis.Once muscles of breathing are involved,the client must indicate in the advance directive what is to be done when breathing is no longer possible without intervention.The other statements do not address the client's needs.

A Nurse Cares for a Client with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis