A client with a terminal illness without an advance directive stops breathing,and does not have a heartbeat.What should the nurse do?
A)Call a "slow code."
B)Call a partial code.
C)Call the physician.
D)Call a code.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In this situation, it is appropriate to call a code, which signals a medical emergency and initiates advanced life support measures such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Despite the client's terminal illness and lack of an advance directive, every effort must be made to resuscitate the client until a determination can be made regarding the client's wishes and prognosis. A "slow code" or partial code would not be appropriate in this situation, as they involve selectively withholding certain medical interventions. Calling the physician should be done after initiating a code.

A Client with a Terminal Illness Without an Advance Directive