The most important impact that truthful, timely communication between

The most important impact that truthful, timely communication between the nurse and the family of a critically ill client has is on the family’s ability to:

1. Trust the nurse
2. Adjust to “bad news”
3. Be confident of the care the client is receiving
4. Make appropriate choices regarding client treatment

ANSWER

ANS: 1
Provide realistic assurance; giving false hope breaks the nurse-client trust. Being trustful of the information provided by the nurse will aid in the adjustment to “bad news.” Trust is the basis for confidence in the care being provided and for appropriate decision-making.