A nurse who works effectively with clients who are dying recognizes that

D. Denial is often the initial stage of the grieving process, characterized by disbelief or avoidance of the reality of the situation. Clients may refuse to accept the diagnosis or its implications, clinging to the hope that it is not true. The client's statement of "This cannot be happening to me" is consistent with denial, as they are expressing disbelief or resistance to the reality of their diagnosis.
A. This stage involves feelings of sadness, despair, and hopelessness. While depression is a common response to a terminal diagnosis, the client's statement of "This cannot be happening to me" suggests that they may still be in an earlier stage of grief.
B. Anger is another common stage of the grieving process, characterized by feelings of frustration, resentment, and hostility. Clients may direct their anger towards themselves, others, or even a higher power. While anger can be a prominent reaction to a terminal diagnosis, the client's statement does not explicitly express anger but rather disbelief or resistance.
C. Bargaining is a stage in which individuals may attempt to negotiate or make deals in an effort to change or postpone the inevitable outcome. For example, a client may pray for more time or promise to change their behavior in exchange for a better outcome. The client's statement of "This cannot be happening to me" does not reflect bargaining but rather denial or disbelief.

A. One of the primary purposes of inserting an NG tube is to decompress the stomach by removing gastric contents. In the case of abdominal distention and severe vomiting, excess gas and fluid accumulation in the stomach can contribute to discomfort and further vomiting. The NG tube provides a way to suction out these contents, relieving pressure and reducing symptoms.
B. NG tubes can also be used to administer medications directly into the stomach. This route is particularly useful when a client is unable to take medications orally due to vomiting or other gastrointestinal issues. Medications can be crushed and dissolved in liquid form before being administered through the NG tube.
C. In some situations, such as when assessing for gastrointestinal bleeding or checking for tube placement, it may be necessary to determine the pH of gastric secretions. Gastric aspirate obtained through the NG tube can be tested for acidity, which can help confirm that the tube is correctly positioned in the stomach and provide information about the client's digestive function.
D. While NG tubes can be used to supply nutrients via tube feedings, this is not typically the primary rationale for their use in the acute situation described (abdominal distention and severe vomiting). However, in cases where a client is unable to tolerate oral intake due to their condition, tube feedings can be administered through the NG tube to provide essential nutrients and maintain nutritional status.