A patient tells the nurse that he wants to end his life and asks to talk with the doctor about assisted suicide. Which of the following should the nurse do to assist this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the patient's request to end his life must be stated to the physician on at least two occasions at least two weeks apart, without any self-contradiction during that time interval, the nurse needs to contact the physician to discuss the patient's decision. The nurse cannot determine whether or not the patient is fully informed. The nurse also cannot falsely tell the patient that his decision cannot be changed since he has stated his intentions. There is not enough information to determine if the patient is incompetent for making healthcare decisions.

A Patient Tells the Nurse That He Wants to End