End of Life Ethics for Nurses

Which of the following best describes the principle of autonomy in end of life care?

• Making decisions based solely on the wishes of the family

• Respecting the patient’s right to make their own choices about their care

• Always following the doctor’s orders without question

• Prioritising the nurse’s personal beliefs

What is an Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT) commonly known as in Great Britain?

• Living Will

• Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) order

• Lasting Power of Attorney

• Health Proxy

Which act provides the legal framework for making decisions on behalf of adults who lack capacity in England and Wales?

• Human Rights Act 1998

• Mental Capacity Act 2005

• Equality Act 2010

• Care Act 2014

A patient with a terminal illness refuses further treatment. What should the nurse do first?

• Ignore the patient’s wishes and continue treatment

• Respect the patient’s decision and discuss their wishes further

• Immediately discharge the patient

• Call the police

Which of the following is NOT a key principle of palliative care?

• Providing relief from pain and other distressing symptoms

• Intending to hasten death

• Integrating psychological and spiritual aspects of care

• Supporting the family during the patient’s illness and in bereavement

What is the main purpose of a Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) order?

• To ensure all patients receive CPR

• To prevent unnecessary and unwanted resuscitation attempts

• To allow nurses to make all decisions about care

• To transfer decision-making to the patient’s family

Which of the following best describes the doctrine of double effect in end of life care?

• Giving medication to hasten death

• Providing pain relief that may unintentionally shorten life

• Withholding all treatment

• Always resuscitating the patient

Who is legally responsible for making decisions about a patient’s care if they lack capacity and have no Advance Decision or Lasting Power of Attorney?

• The patient’s neighbour

• The healthcare team, acting in the patient’s best interests

• The local MP

• The patient’s employer

Which of the following is a sign that a patient may be approaching the end of life?

• Increased appetite

• Decreased consciousness and reduced urine output

• Sudden weight gain

• High energy levels

What is the role of effective communication in end of life care?

• To avoid discussing difficult topics with patients and families

• To ensure patients and families are informed and supported in decision-making

• To only provide written information

• To persuade patients to accept all treatments