Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026

Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Legal considerations at the end of life
1University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing, USA.
Abstract:
Patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) and their families face questions related to dying that are touched by legal mandates. This article addresses patients' legal rights and the nurse's role in advocating for these rights. Advance directives, competency to make health care decisions, assisted suicide, disability law, and the duty to provide reasonable and safe care are specific areas discussed in the article. Nurses must become familiar with legal requirements; communicate effectively with patients, families, and other caregivers; provide care that falls within the standard of care expected of nephrology nurses; and advocate for policies that enhance ESRD patient care.
Related Concept Videos
Continuing Care
Legal Guidelines for Documentation
Nursing Ethical Principles II
Consider the following scenario, which illustrates how these principles are applied in the care of Mr. John, a fifty-year-old teacher diagnosed with metastatic liver cancer.
Initially, Mr. John's cancer...
Ethical Issues
Ethical Concerns in Healthcare:
Ethical Dilemmas II
Standards of Care II

