Final answer:
The practical nurse (PN) should first assess the patient exhibiting a change in respiratory pattern by checking vital signs and comfort level, and communicate effectively with the family. Knowledge of hospice care, the five stages of grief, and end-of-life documents like DNR orders is crucial in providing appropriate care and support.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary concern of a practical nurse (PN) working in a hospice unit is to provide compassionate and appropriate care for patients in their final stages of life. When a patient with terminal lung cancer begins to exhibit a change in respiratory pattern, such as deeper breaths, the PN should first assess the patient. This involves monitoring the patient's vital signs, evaluating their comfort level, and observing any other symptoms that may indicate a change in their condition. Effective communication with the patient's family is also crucial in providing both medical information and emotional support.
The PN should be knowledgeable about hospice care practices, which focus on pain management and ensuring the patient's quality of life. Understanding the five stages of grief can also help the PN support the family members as they navigate their own emotional responses to their loved one's condition. As the PN may encounter living wills, Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, and other end-of-life planning documents, being well-versed in these issues is essential for delivering appropriate care and respecting the patient's wishes.