A client’s adult children call the nurse hourly with concerns about th

QUESTION

A client’s adult children call the nurse hourly with concerns about their mother’s death and end-of-life care. The nurse’s best response is to

a. provide detailed, scientific information.
b. discuss physical symptoms.
c. withhold information to avoid unnecessary fears.
d. provide frequent updates.

ANSWER:

ANS: D
Immanent Death: Family Communication Needs
¥ Honest and complete answers to questions; repetition and further explanation, if needed
¥ Updates about the client’s condition and changes as they occur
¥ Clear, understandable explanations, delivered with empathy and respect
¥ Frequent opportunities to express concerns and feelings in a supportive, unhurried environment
¥ Information about what to expect—physical, emotional, spiritual—as death approaches
¥ Discussion of whom to call, legal issues, memorial or funeral planning
¥ Conversation about cultural and/or religious rituals at time of and after death
¥ Appreciation of the conflicts that families experience when the illness dictates that few options exist; for example, a frequent dilemma is whether life support measures are extending life or prolonging the dying phase
¥ Short, private times to be present and/or minister to the client
¥ Permission to leave the dying client for short periods with the knowledge that the nurse will contact the family member if there is a change in status