The nurse is caring for a child who is dying. What is the most importa

The nurse is caring for a child who is dying. What is the most important communication strategy for the nurse to use at this time?

1. Talk to the child at the appropriate level of understanding.
2. Be totally open and honest with the child.
3. Avoid discussing death with the child.
4. Encourage the family to talk with the child about the impending death.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale: Although it is very important to be open and honest with the child and may be appropriate to encourage the family to talk with the child about impending death, the most important strategy is to talk with the child at the appropriate level of understanding. Without recognition of this concept, none of the other options will be effective. The nurse should not avoid discussing death with the child if the child brings up the subject.