Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

During a patient-care conference regarding a patient's end-of-life care, which individuals should be invited?

1. The family, the MD team, the primary RN, and the case manager

2. The family, the MD team, the primary RN, and ethics committee members

3. Only the primary physician and the case manager

4. The family and the primary RN only

The correct answer is: The family, the MD team, the primary RN, and ethics committee members

Inviting the family, the MD team, the primary RN, and ethics committee members to the patient-care conference for discussing end-of-life care brings together a multidisciplinary group essential for comprehensive decision-making. Including the family ensures that their perspectives, preferences, and emotional needs are integrated into the care plan, as they play a crucial role in the patient's support system and decision-making process during such a sensitive time. The MD team provides clinical insights and medical guidance regarding the patient's condition and treatment options, facilitating informed discussions about the patient's prognosis and expected outcomes. The primary RN contributes valuable frontline observations regarding the patient’s medical condition, emotional state, and everyday care needs, which can influence care decisions significantly. Involving ethics committee members is particularly critical in end-of-life discussions, as they can offer ethical guidance on complex issues, such as patient autonomy, best interests, and possible conflicts among family members or between medical recommendations and personal beliefs. Their expertise helps ensure that decisions are made ethically and in alignment with the values and principles important to the patient and family. Overall, this inclusive approach promotes holistic care, respects the patient’s wishes, and upholds ethical standards throughout the end-of-life process.