A nurse is explaining the early stage of the dying process to a patient’s family.
A family member mentions, “My parent seems really confused at times.”. What is the most appropriate response from the nurse?
This is a normal cognitive change that is happening.
Your parent is experiencing sundowners.
Your parent might be feeling anxious.
Your parent might need more rest.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Confusion or disorientation can be a normal part of the dying process. As the body systems start to shut down, changes in mental status, including confusion, can occur.
Choice B rationale
Sundowning is a phenomenon that is typically associated with dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, and is characterized by confusion and agitation that gets worse in the late afternoon and evening. It is not specifically associated with the dying process.
Choice C rationale
While anxiety can occur at any stage of illness, it is not the most appropriate response in this context. The family member is specifically asking about confusion, not anxiety.
Choice D rationale
Needing more rest could be a part of the dying process, but it does not directly address the family member’s concern about confusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Engaging in conversation with the patient during wound care can provide emotional support by distracting the patient from the pain and discomfort associated with the procedure. It also helps to build a therapeutic relationship, which is crucial in the healing process.
Choice B rationale
While ensuring the patient’s room is kept tidy by support staff is important for maintaining a clean and safe environment, it does not directly provide emotional support to the patient.
Choice C rationale
Keeping the patient’s family informed about his condition can provide reassurance and reduce anxiety, but it does not directly provide emotional support to the patient.
Choice D rationale
Rotating the nursing staff can provide the patient with varied interactions, but it may not necessarily provide emotional support. Consistency in care providers can often be more beneficial in building trust and rapport.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Positioning the head of the patient’s bed flat is not typically recommended after a laryngectomy. Instead, the head of the bed is often elevated to help reduce swelling and improve breathing.
Choice B rationale
Providing the patient with humidified air can help keep the airway moist and reduce discomfort, making it a common practice after a laryngectomy.
Choice C rationale
While keeping the surgical site clean is important, cleaning the patient’s sutures every 8 hours is not a standard recommendation and may vary based on the surgeon’s instructions.
Choice D rationale
Suctioning the patient’s mouth on the side of the surgery is not typically recommended as it could potentially disrupt the surgical site.
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