Management of CareQuestion 288 of 2368
A nurse hesitates to give morphine to a dying client with severe pain, fearing it will hasten death. Which principle supports giving it?
- Pain relief is justified only if the dose can never affect the client's breathing
- If the intent is pain relief, it is justified even when death is unintentionally hastened
- Opioids may be given to a dying client only after the family gives written consent
- Sedation must always be avoided in the final days of life, even when pain is severe
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Correct answer: If the intent is pain relief, it is justified even when death is unintentionally hastened
Under the rule of double effect, a good intent such as relieving suffering makes the act morally justifiable even if it hastens death.
Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Grief and Loss: PRINCIPLE OF DOUBLE EFFECT. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Management of Care"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026