A client who has AIDS tells the nurse, “I don’t know why I should even

A client who has AIDS tells the nurse, “I don’t know why I should even keep trying. This disease is so horrible and so many people die from it. It will get me, too.” The nurse recognizes this statement as being

1. an indication of hopelessness that should be further evaluated for treatment.
2. a simple statement of the facts regarding AIDS.
3. common and expected in those facing the end of life.
4. proof that the client is accepting the facts of the illness and impending death.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: This statement reflects hopelessness. Hopelessness is not an expected feeling at end of life and can and should be treated. Despite the inevitability of death, the goal is for the client to continue to express hope of some nature. This hope might take the form of short-term completion of goals prior to death, for peacefulness at the time of death, or for attainment of the individual’s personal belief about the afterlife.
Rationale 2: This is not a simple statement of the facts regarding AIDS.
Rationale 3: Feelings of hopelessness are not common and expected in those facing the end of life.
Rationale 4: Even though death is inevitable, the client should continue to express hope of some nature.