An adolescent patient diagnosed with leukemia decides to stop chemotherapy treatments.The patient's parents,however,want the health-care team to continue all treatments.Which action by the nurse is appropriate when providing care to this patient and family?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As a nurse, it is important to respect the patient's autonomy and support the adolescent patient's decision-making process. The nurse should provide information and allow the family to express their concerns, while also ensuring that the patient's legal rights are being upheld. Confronting the parents or calling the authorities immediately would not be appropriate in this situation. Obtaining a court order may be necessary if there is a question about the patient's ability to make decisions, but should be a last resort option only after all other avenues have been explored.

An Adolescent Patient Diagnosed with Leukemia Decides to Stop Chemotherapy