When a patient admitted for terminal care is asked by the admitting nurse, "What has your doctor told you about your illness?" the patient states, "She says that I have a terminal illness, but I know she’s wrong." The nurse recognizes that:
the patient has a doctor Who does not tell patients when they have a terminal illness.
the patient is in denial and is unable to consciously admit what he has been told by the doctor.
the patient needs to be told that he doesn’t have long to live so that he can make his final arrangements.
she will have to avoid all conversation that refers to his disease or symptoms so as not to increase his anxiety.
The Correct Answer is B
A. This option assumes that the doctor does not inform patients about terminal illnesses, which may not necessarily be the case. It is more likely that the patient is in denial rather than the doctor not disclosing the diagnosis.
B. Denial is a common defense mechanism in response to distressing or overwhelming information. The patient's statement suggests denial of the terminal diagnosis despite being informed by the doctor. Denial allows individuals to avoid confronting the reality of their situation and can serve as a protective mechanism to cope with the emotional impact of the diagnosis.
C. While it may be important for the patient to have an understanding of their prognosis in order to make informed decisions and final arrangements, pushing the patient to accept the reality of their terminal illness before they are ready may not be helpful and can cause distress.
D. Avoiding conversation about the disease or symptoms may not address the underlying issue of denial and may hinder open communication between the patient and healthcare team. It is important for the nurse to provide support and opportunities for the patient to discuss their feelings and concerns about their illness, while also respecting their coping mechanisms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. The respiratory rate increasing may indicate discomfort or agitation rather than a therapeutic response to the massage.
B. The shoulders drooping may indicate relaxation, a release of tension and potentially improved comfort.
C. The relaxation of facial muscles indicates a therapeutic response to the back massage, as it suggests the client is experiencing relief from tension or discomfort.
D. Drawing the legs up into a fetal position may indicate discomfort or agitation rather than a therapeutic response to the massage.
E. The pulse remaining within the expected range suggests that the client is not experiencing undue stress or discomfort in response to the massage, indicating a therapeutic response.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Staying positive and optimistic at all times may not be realistic or helpful when supporting grieving patients and families. It's essential for the nurse to acknowledge and validate the range of emotions experienced by individuals who are grieving, which may include sadness, anger, and despair.
B. While understanding theories of grief can be beneficial, it is not the most crucial aspect of providing effective support. Empathy, active listening, and validation of emotions are often more important in supporting grieving individuals.
C. Keeping a professional distance from the situation may hinder the nurse's ability to provide empathetic and compassionate care. While maintaining professionalism is important, forming a therapeutic relationship often requires a degree of emotional closeness and empathy.
D. Coming to terms with his or her own view of death is essential for providing effective support to grieving patients and families. Nurses who have unresolved issues or fears related to death may struggle to provide empathetic and supportive care to individuals who are grieving. Personal reflection and self-awareness can help nurses manage their own emotions and biases, allowing them to better support others during times of grief.
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