A nurse is assessing a client who lost their spouse 11 months ago. The client reports persistent sadness, withdrawal from social activities, and states, "I still talk to him every night and can't imagine a future without him." Which of the following are signs and symptoms of complicated grieving? (Select all that apply.)
Acceptance of the loss
Difficulty trusting others since the loss
Previous history of depression
Understanding of what happened
No emotion
Correct Answer : B,C,E
Rationale:
A. Acceptance of the loss is a healthy part of normal grieving and not a sign of complicated grief.
B. Difficulty trusting others after a significant loss can indicate complicated grief, as it interferes with forming or maintaining relationships.
C. A history of depression is a risk factor for developing complicated grief and may worsen emotional recovery.
D. Understanding what happened reflects cognitive processing of the loss and is associated with normal, not complicated, grieving.
E. Emotional numbness or absence of emotion long after a loss can indicate complicated or prolonged grief, especially when it impairs daily functioning.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. While this question opens communication, it shifts the focus to others instead of validating the client’s current emotional state.
B. This is a nontherapeutic response that minimizes the client’s feelings and offers false reassurance.
C. This can evoke guilt and is not therapeutic—it shifts the focus away from the client’s emotions and may increase their distress.
D. This response demonstrates empathy, acknowledges the client’s emotional pain, and shows willingness to listen—a cornerstone of therapeutic communication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. While documentation may be helpful, immediately advising legal action may overwhelm the client and compromise trust if they are not ready.
B. Urging the client to leave immediately may ignore their sense of readiness or fear, which could reduce engagement or increase danger.
C. Offering nonjudgmental support and information about the cycle of abuse promotes both safety and autonomy by helping the client make informed, empowered decisions.
D. Couples counseling is inappropriate in cases of intimate partner violence, as it may place the victim at further risk and shift blame.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.