An oncologist has recommended that a hospice patient receives palliative radiation to reduce the pain of bony metastases. The patient reacts with anger, saying, "l don't want any more treatments that don't cure my cancer!" The hospice nurse tells the patient that the use of radiation:
Of this type is not curative and may help reduce the pain he is experiencing
Will be used as a single treatment measure. Previous medications will be discontinued.
May disqualify him from receiving hospice care.
May halt the metastatic process
The Correct Answer is A
A. Of this type is not curative and may help reduce the pain he is experiencing: This response provides accurate information about the purpose of palliative radiation therapy for bony metastases. It acknowledges the patient's concerns about treatment not curing the cancer while emphasizing the potential benefit of radiation therapy in reducing pain and improving quality of life.
B. Will be used as a single treatment measure. Previous medications will be discontinued: This statement is inaccurate and may cause confusion for the patient. Palliative radiation therapy is often used in conjunction with other pain management strategies, and discontinuing previous medications without a proper assessment and plan may not be appropriate.
C. May disqualify him from receiving hospice care: This statement is incorrect. Receiving palliative radiation therapy does not automatically disqualify a patient from hospice care. Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and support to terminally ill patients, and decisions about treatments such as radiation therapy are made based on the patient's goals and preferences.
D. May halt the metastatic process: Palliative radiation therapy is not typically used with the intention of halting the metastatic process. Its primary goal is to alleviate symptoms such as pain and improve the patient's quality of life. While radiation therapy may shrink tumors in some cases, it is not considered a curative treatment for metastatic cancer.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "l can’t believe that doctor graduated from medical school! He doesn’t know a thing about treating cancer. This statement expresses frustration or disbelief towards the doctor's competence rather than denial of the terminal diagnosis.
B. "The doctor has been so good to me. know he has tried everything he can. It is just my time." This statement acknowledges the terminal nature of the illness and indicates acceptance rather than denial.
C. "The doctor says I only have a few months to live, but know he is exaggerating to get me to take my medication. This statement suggests denial by questioning the doctor's prognosis and attributing it to an ulterior motive, such as getting the patient to take medication. The client is unable to accept the reality of the limited life expectancy despite being informed by the doctor.
D. "Even though I am not hurting right now, I don't feel like I have the energy to get Out Of bed."
This statement reflects physical symptoms and lack of energy rather than denial of the illness.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "Don’t let him get away with this abuse. He doesn’t need to yell at you": This response is dismissive of the patient's emotions and fails to address the underlying issues causing the anger. It may escalate the situation and create conflict rather than fostering understanding and support.
B. "I'm afraid he is having a bad day and feels neglected": While this response acknowledges the patient's feelings, it does not provide a broader context for understanding the patient's behavior. It may also inadvertently minimize the patient's emotions and the impact of his terminal illness.
C. "This may be how he feels best in dealing with this illness. You'll just have to ignore it": This response dismisses the patient's behavior as acceptable without exploring its underlying causes. It does not promote therapeutic communication or help address the patient's needs and concerns.
D. "Anger is a reaction that dying people experience. You may be feeling some anger yourselves": This response acknowledges the patient's emotions as a common reaction to terminal illness, normalizing his experience. It also recognizes the emotions of the nurses and family, encouraging empathy and understanding. By validating the patient's feelings and providing context, the nurse can facilitate a supportive environment and promote effective communication and care.
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