The sibling of an adolescent client with Down syndrome was hit by ...

[iveyjurea]

The sibling of an adolescent client with Down syndrome was hit by a car and killed. The mother plans to hold the funeral before the client gets out of the hospital.
 
  Which is the most appropriate response by the nurse when the mother asks if this is the right decision to make?
  A) You should let the rest of the family decide on whether the client should attend the funeral.
  B) You should make the decision when you are feeling better.
  C) You made the right choice in holding the funeral now.
  D) You should let the client choose to attend the funeral or not.

Question 2

The spouse of a client being treated for depression believes the client is not responding to prescribed medication. Which statements by the nurse are appropriate when responding to the client's spouse?
 
  Select all that apply.
  A) Stop the medication immediately.
  B) A trial-and-error period is the best way to determine which medication is the most effective.
  C) A trial of 4 to 6 weeks is usually done to see how people respond to the medication.
  D) Stay on the medication for 6 months to see if there is a response.
  E) Learn to live with the depression.

[Mochi]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: D

The client with Down syndrome will experience grief and loss as any individual would. The client should be allowed to choose for himself, within reason, if he wants to attend the funeral. This client needs closure for the grief he will have. Telling the mother she did the right thing is not appropriate. Neither is it appropriate to advise her to let others make the decision or tell her to postpone the decision.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: B, C

A trial-and-error period may be needed to determine what medication is best for the individual. About 30 of clients do not respond to their antidepressant in a trial of 4 to 6 weeks. Do not stop medications without notification of the prescriber. Antidepressant medication is often prescribed for clients with depression symptoms. Stating that the spouse will have to learn to live with the depression is inappropriate.