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Fundamentals of Nursing

What Should the Nurse Do?

Fundamentals of NursingWhat Should the Nurse Do?

What Should the Nurse Do?

1 .
The nurse is caring for a patient with malignant melanoma that has metastasized to the brain, spine, lungs, and liver. The patient states they do not want any medical treatment or interventions. What should the nurse do?
The nurse on an intensive care unit is caring for an 83-year-old female admitted for a urinary tract infection and sepsis. The patient has been in a nursing home following a cerebrovascular accident resulting in right-sided weakness and paresthesia. The patient appears to be malnourished with sunken skin over bony prominences. During the shift assessment, the nurse notes a reddened area of intact nonblanchable skin on the sacral areas. The head of the bed is elevated because the patient is at risk of aspiration with feedings.
2 .
How would the nurse assess the skin?
3 .
What factors increase this patient’s risk of skin breakdown?
4 .
What things can the nurse do to prevent further damage and promote healing?
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