When caring for a client with a "do not resuscitate" order, what should the nurse prioritize in their plan of care?

In a situation involving a client with a "do not resuscitate" (DNR) order, it is paramount for the nurse to honor the client’s end-of-life wishes. A DNR order indicates that the client has made a conscious decision regarding their care, specifically opting not to undergo resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Respecting this choice is fundamental to providing patient-centered care and ensuring that the client's autonomy is upheld.

When the nurse prioritizes the patient’s wishes, it not only aligns with ethical nursing practices but also offers comfort and dignity to the client during their end-of-life journey. Furthermore, honoring these wishes can help reduce the client's anxiety about aggressive interventions that they do not want, allowing for a more peaceful and individualized approach to their care.

While engaging with family members and monitoring vital signs are important components of holistic care, they should not take precedence over honoring the patient's wishes in the context of a DNR order. Maximizing interventions to prolong life contradicts the very intent of the DNR directive and would not be appropriate in this context. Thus, prioritizing the client’s end-of-life wishes is essential for maintaining trust and providing ethical care.