Evolve HESI Practice Exam

For a client with a DNR order, what should be the nurse's primary focus during care?

1. Preventing any deterioration of the client

2. Ensuring the client is comfortable and at peace

3. Encouraging the family to be involved in care

4. Monitoring vital signs closely

The correct answer is: Ensuring the client is comfortable and at peace

The primary focus for a nurse caring for a client with a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is to ensure the client is comfortable and at peace. This approach aligns with the objectives of palliative care, which prioritize quality of life and symptom management, especially for clients who are nearing the end of life. The presence of a DNR order indicates that the client has expressed a wish to avoid resuscitative efforts in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest, signaling a focus on comfort rather than aggressive treatment. By prioritizing comfort, the nurse can assess and manage pain, address emotional and spiritual needs, and create a peaceful environment for both the client and their family. This focus can also involve coordinating care with other healthcare providers to ensure that all aspects of the client's well-being are attended to, enhancing the overall experience for the client in their final days. While monitoring for deterioration, family involvement, and watching vital signs are important aspects of care in certain contexts, the presence of a DNR order shifts the goal toward providing comfort and quality of life rather than pursuing curative measures or intensive monitoring. Thus, ensuring the client is comfortable and at peace takes precedence in the context of a DNR order.