A nurse is attempting to use non-pharmacological treatment for pain control. Which treatment could the nurse delegate to the UAP?

What has it been like for you since your wife died? This statement shows empathy and invites the client to share his feelings and experiences.

It also acknowledges the client’s loss and validates his grief.

Choice A. Tell me how your wife died.

This statement is too intrusive and may cause the client to feel uncomfortable or defensive. It also focuses on the past event rather than the present situation.

Choice B. Have you considered attending a grief group? This statement is too premature and may imply that the nurse is trying to solve the client’s problem or dismiss his feelings.

It also assumes that the client needs or wants a grief group.

Choice D. You have wonderful children and grandchildren who are very supportive.

This statement is too superficial and may minimize the client’s grief or make him feel guilty. It also shifts the attention away from the client and his wife.

Formed stool two times per day, every day, for one week. This indicates that bowel training is attaining the desired outcome because it shows regularity and consistency of bowel movements without the use of laxatives or enemas.

Choice B is wrong because soap sud enemas are not recommended for bowel training as they can irritate the bowel and cause fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

Choice C is wrong because continued use of laxatives can inhibit the natural defecation reflexes and cause dependency.

Choice D is wrong because a formed, soft stool at regular intervals without the use of a laxative is a normal defecation pattern, not an indication of fecal incontinence.