The nurse is caring for a critically ill patient with terminal cancer.The monitor alarms and shows a potentially lethal rhythm.The patient has no pulse.The patient does not have a "do not resuscitate" order written on the chart.What is the appropriate nursing action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because no orders have been written,it is imperative that a code be called.In this example,decisions regarding resuscitation status should be determined as soon as possible before a code event.The physician and family should be contacted immediately to determine treatment options,but CPR is not withheld.It is not appropriate to conduct a "partial" code by giving medications only.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Critically Ill Patient with Terminal