The nurse is caring for a client who has just received biopsy reports

QUESTION

The nurse is caring for a client who has just received biopsy reports that indicate recurrence of metastatic stage IV breast cancer. The client’s statement that indicates the acceptance stage of death and dying is,

a. “The test results are incredible.”
b. “The test results are positive.”
c. “The test results are negative.”
d. “The test results will be repeated next week.”

ANSWER:

ANS: B
The acceptance stage is characterized by an acknowledgment of the inevitable end of life. “The test results are incredible” indicates the anger stage. “The test results are negative” indicates the denial stage. “The test results will be repeated next week” indicates bargaining or denial.