A client diagnosed with terminal cancer says, “I’m going to die, and I wish my family would stop hoping for a cure. I get so angry when they carry on like this.
After all, I’m the one who’s dying.”. Which response by the nurse is therapeutic?

Choice A rationale
Planning involves setting goals and determining the appropriate interventions to achieve those goals. It is not the step being performed when changing a wound dressing.
Choice B rationale
Evaluation involves assessing the effectiveness of the interventions and determining if the goals have been met. It is not the step being performed when changing a wound dressing.
Choice C rationale
Assessment involves gathering data about the client’s condition. While assessment is an ongoing process, it is not the primary step being performed when changing a wound dressing.
Choice D rationale
Implementation involves carrying out the planned interventions. Changing a wound dressing is an example of implementing a nursing intervention.

Choice A rationale
Feeding a stroke client who has difficulty in swallowing is a task that requires careful attention to prevent aspiration and choking. While this task is important, it can be delegated to a trained nursing assistant or a licensed practical nurse (LPN) under the supervision of an RN. The RN should focus on tasks that require higher levels of clinical judgment and expertise.
Choice B rationale
Completing a sterile dressing change to a pressure ulcer is a task that requires the expertise and clinical judgment of an RN. Sterile dressing changes involve maintaining a sterile field, assessing the wound, and applying appropriate dressings. This task is critical for preventing infection and promoting wound healing, making it appropriate for the RN to perform.
Choice C rationale
Reapplying a condom catheter for a client with urinary incontinence is a routine procedure that can be delegated to a trained nursing assistant or an LPN. This task does not require the advanced clinical skills and judgment of an RN, allowing the RN to focus on more complex and critical tasks.
Choice D rationale
Reinforcing teaching with a client who is learning how to administer insulin is an important task, but it can be delegated to an LPN under the supervision of an RN. The RN should prioritize tasks that require higher levels of clinical expertise and judgment, such as sterile dressing changes and complex assessments.