A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of chronic renal failure. The nurse should recognize which of the following client statements as an indication of anticipatory grief?

In Kübler-Ross's stages of dying, acceptance is the final stage characterized by a sense of peace, tranquility, and readiness to confront death. The statement "She’ll soon be at peace" reflects an acknowledgment and acceptance of the impending death of the individual, as well as a recognition of the relief or comfort that may come with the end of suffering. This behavior aligns with the acceptance stage of Kübler-Ross's model.

A. Anger: Anger is typically characterized by feelings of frustration, resentment, and hostility. In Kübler-Ross's model, anger often arises as individuals struggle to come to terms with their diagnosis or prognosis. However, the statement provided does not express anger but rather a sense of acceptance and tranquility. Therefore, this choice is less appropriate.

B. Depression: Depression in the context of Kübler-Ross's stages of dying involves feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair. It often occurs as individuals confront the reality of their situation and the impending loss. The statement "She’ll soon be at peace" does not reflect the pervasive sadness and despair associated with depression. Instead, it conveys a sense of acceptance and readiness for the end of suffering, making this choice less fitting.

C. Denial: Denial is a defense mechanism characterized by a refusal to accept reality or acknowledge the truth of a situation. In Kübler-Ross's model, denial is often one of the initial stages of coping with a terminal diagnosis. However, the statement provided does not reflect denial, as the individual acknowledges the reality of the impending death and the potential for peace. Therefore, this choice is not the most appropriate.

D. Bargaining: Bargaining involves attempting to negotiate or make deals to postpone or mitigate the inevitable outcome. In Kübler-Ross's model, individuals may bargain with themselves, others, or a higher power in an attempt to avoid facing the reality of death. The statement "She’ll soon be at peace" does not indicate bargaining, as there is no attempt to negotiate or make deals to avoid death. Instead, it reflects acceptance of the situation and readiness for the end of suffering. Therefore, this choice is less suitable compared to others.

E. Acceptance: Acceptance is the final stage in Kübler-Ross's model, characterized by a sense of peace, tranquility, and readiness to confront death. The statement "She’ll soon be at peace" reflects an acknowledgment and acceptance of the impending death, as well as a recognition of the potential for relief or comfort that comes with the end of suffering. This behavior aligns most closely with the acceptance stage of Kübler-Ross's model, making it the most appropriate choice.

A. Listening attentively when the client talks about the past allows the nurse to provide emotional support and validation for the client's feelings of grief. It demonstrates empathy and encourages the client to express their emotions, which can be therapeutic.

B. Telling the client that feelings of grief are a common problem of the aging population may invalidate the client's individual experience and minimize their feelings. Each person's experience of grief is unique, and acknowledging this is important for effective support.

C. Providing activities to distract the client from dwelling on the past may temporarily divert attention but does not address the underlying feelings of grief. Encouraging avoidance of emotions may hinder the client's ability to cope effectively.

D. Comparing the client's experience to that of younger clients who have experienced loss may not be helpful and could potentially minimize the significance of the client's feelings. It is important to focus on the individual client's experience and provide personalized support.