Final answer:
The principle of nonmaleficence in nursing care for a dying client is demonstrated through providing comfort care and withholding treatments that could cause harm, such as narcotic pain medication in the presence of respiratory depression. Discussing advance directives respects the client’s wishes for end-of-life care.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse should incorporate the principle of nonmaleficence into practice by ensuring they do not cause unnecessary harm to patients. In the context of caring for a dying client, nonmaleficence can be demonstrated through actions like providing comfort care measures to alleviate pain and suffering without exacerbating the client's condition. Discussing advance directives with the client and their family is also essential, as it respects the client's wishes regarding end-of-life care and addresses potential interventions or the withholding thereof, such as Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders. However, while allowing a client's family unlimited visitation may be compassionate, it does not directly relate to the principle of nonmaleficence.
Specific actions like withholding a dose of narcotic pain medication when the client has respiratory depression directly apply to the principle of nonmaleficence, as administering the medication could cause harm to the patient. This principle mandates that healthcare providers practice caution to avoid actions that could further deteriorate a patient's condition, especially when a patient is vulnerable, as in the case of a client who is dying.