A practical nurse (PN) is providing care to a client who recently received a terminal illness diagnosis. Which question by the PN is the highest priority when assessing anticipatory grief?
"Have you experienced anxiety or anger?"
"Have you been able perform daily activities?"
"Have you had suicidal thoughts?"
"Have you joined any support groups?"
The Correct Answer is C
A. "Have you experienced anxiety or anger?": Feelings of anxiety and anger are common in anticipatory grief, but while important, they do not represent the most urgent safety concern compared to assessing for suicidal ideation.
B. "Have you been able to perform daily activities?": Evaluating functional status is important but is not the highest priority when first assessing a client’s emotional and psychological response to a terminal diagnosis.
C. "Have you had suicidal thoughts?": Assessing for suicidal ideation is the highest priority because clients facing a terminal illness may experience overwhelming despair. Ensuring the client’s immediate safety must come before addressing emotional support or coping mechanisms.
D. "Have you joined any support groups?": Participation in support groups is helpful for emotional healing, but determining the client's current mental health status and safety must be addressed before exploring support resources.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Provide a tepid sponge bath: Providing a tepid sponge bath is an effective non-pharmacological intervention to help lower a dangerously high fever in a child. This method promotes gentle cooling by encouraging heat loss through evaporation, helping reduce the risk of another seizure without causing abrupt temperature changes.
B. Remove blankets while shivering: Removing blankets while the child is actively shivering is not recommended because shivering can increase the body's metabolic rate and paradoxically raise the core temperature. Managing the fever should focus on gradual cooling without triggering additional metabolic heat production.
C. Apply blankets during diaphoresis: Applying blankets during diaphoresis, when the child is already sweating, can trap heat and counteract the body's natural efforts to cool down. During diaphoresis, lighter coverings or removing excess clothing is more appropriate to facilitate heat loss.
D. Turn on an oscillating fan: Although using a fan can aid in cooling by promoting air circulation, it can also cause rapid cooling, leading to shivering. Shivering increases metabolic heat production, which may worsen the child's condition during a febrile episode rather than improving it.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Quickly complete tasks and leave client's room: Leaving the room quickly can make the client feel abandoned and isolated at a time when emotional support is crucial. Presence and attentive listening are important components of compassionate end-of-life care.
B. Request the chaplain to talk with client: While involving spiritual support services can be valuable, immediately referring the client to someone else may delay emotional comfort. The PN should first offer direct support before suggesting additional resources.
C. Ask the client if praying together would help: Offering prayer without knowing the client’s spiritual preferences might be inappropriate or uncomfortable for some individuals. It's better initially to offer silent presence and allow the client to express their needs if they wish.
D. Remain quietly in the client's room for a while: Staying quietly with the client conveys empathy, presence, and support. Nonverbal comfort allows the client space to process emotions and invites communication if they are ready, building trust and emotional security during a difficult moment.
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