Question

When communicating healthcare decisions through a healthcare proxy, the NP recognizes:

a) The proxy has the same rights to request or refuse treatment that the patient would have if he or she were capable of making and communicating decisions.
b) Only management decisions that are considered life-saving are required to be communicated to the healthcare proxy.
c) The proxy has the right to refuse treatment except in situations when treatment is necessary to preserve life.
d) The closest relative to the patient is assumed to take the proxy responsibilities.

Answer 1

A healthcare proxy has the rights to request or refuse treatment on behalf of the patient, in line with the patient's living will and the principles of autonomy and beneficence. This legal framework ensures the patient's healthcare wishes are honored, fostering informed and compassionate decision-making.

Step-by-step explanation:

When communicating healthcare decisions through a healthcare proxy, the Nurse Practitioner (NP) recognizes that the proxy has the same rights to request or refuse treatment that the patient would have if he or she were capable of making and communicating decisions. This understanding aligns with the principle of autonomy, ensuring the patient's right to self-determination is respected, even when they cannot speak for themselves.

Healthcare proxies are crucial in scenarios where patients have detailed their wishes in a living will or advance directive, which may specify desired interventions or lack thereof. This legal document can help guide healthcare providers and proxies in decision-making, adhering to the patient's values and beliefs. In the realm of medical ethics, principles such as autonomy and beneficence play a significant role.