A patient with metastatic brain cancer says, I'm dying, but I'm ...

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A patient with metastatic brain cancer says, I'm dying, but I'm still living. I want to be in control as long as I can. Which reply shows the nurse was actively listening?
 
  a. Our staff will do their best to help you feel comfortable.
  b. Most people do not know how to help and are afraid of death.
  c. Your mind and spirit are healthy, although your body is frail.
  d. You want people to stop focusing on your weaknesses.

Question 2

A nurse talks with a person whose spouse died while jogging. Which is the appropriate statement for the nurse?
 
  a. At least your spouse did not suffer.
  b. It's better to go quickly as your spouse did.
  c. The loss of your spouse must be very painful for you.
  d. You'll begin to feel better after you get over the shock.

[BAOCHAU2803]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The patient is asking for acknowledgment that he or she is not totally sick; even in the terminal state, strengths and capabilities are present. The correct response provides that acknowledgment. The other responses are tangential.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The most helpful responses by others validate the bereaved person's experience of loss. Avoid banalities; they increase the individual's sense of isolation.

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Gracias!

[CAPTAINAMERICA]

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