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Definitions of medical futility vary and that is why there is confusion and conflicts when determining what is futile in a particular situation. To overcome this it is very important to first identify workable guidelines that provide direction and potentially reduce unnecessary conflicts. Also valuing communication and understanding treatment goals is essential, thus moving the organization towards better understanding of medical futility and improved patient care.

Nursing care for the patient being surgically treated for benign prostatic hyperplasia includes preoperative education of patient and his family, continuous bladder irrigation, and monitoring for excessive bleeding and pain. Infection must be watched for, and aseptic techniques strictly followed. Medications to suppress cell growth and relieve symptoms can be helpful. Severe problems, such as decreased kidney function, indicate a need for surgical intervention.

Diagnosis and treatment of patients afflicted with hypothyroidism is often difficult owing to borderline test results. Since hypothyroidism is usually characterized by subtle and general symptoms, there is also an increased possibility of a missed diagnosis. When treatment is required, though, the patient must be administered with synthetic levothyroxine to achieve a normal thyroid state.