A patient has been suffering from senile dementia, Alzheimer’s type, f

QUESTION

A patient has been suffering from senile dementia, Alzheimer’s type, for over 5 years. Her family has kept her at home, and each member has participated in her care.

The community health nurse has been supporting the family in this effort. Recently, the patient has stopped interacting with the family, refuses to eat, and sleeps a great deal. The family is conflicted over how to care for their dying mother. The nurse understands that her role in this conflict is to:
A. Say nothing; this is a family issue.
B. Speak with the members individually and persuade them to do “what is best for their mother.”
C. Discuss the conflicting opinions with the physician.
D. Persuade the family members to meet together to express their feelings to one another.

ANSWER:

ANS: D