Author Question: A nurse is caring for a client whose wife died in a recent mass casualty accident. The client says, ... (Read 185 times)

j.rubin · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A nurse is caring for a client whose wife died in a recent mass casualty accident. The client says, I can't believe that my wife is gone and I am left to raise my children all by myself. How should the nurse respond?

a. Please accept my sympathies for your loss.
b. I can call the hospital chaplain if you wish.
c. You sound anxious about being a single parent.
d. At least your children still have you in their lives.

Question 2

The hospital administration arranges for critical incident stress debriefing for the staff after a mass casualty incident. Which statement by the debriefing team leader is most appropriate for this situation?

a. You are free to express your feelings; whatever is said here stays here.
b. Let's evaluate what went wrong and develop policies for future incidents.
c. This session is only for nursing and medical staff, not for ancillary personnel.
d. Let's pass around the written policy compliance form for everyone.

jliusyl · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Therapeutic communication includes active listening and honesty. This statement demonstrates that the nurse recognizes the client's distress and has provided an opening for discussion. Extending sympathy and offering to call the chaplain do not give the client the opportunity to discuss feelings. Stating that the children still have one parent discounts the client's feelings and situation.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Strict confidentiality during stress debriefing is essential so that staff members can feel comfortable sharing their feelings, which should be accepted unconditionally. Brainstorming improvements and discussing policies would occur during an administrative review. Any employee present during a mass casualty situation is eligible for critical incident stress management services.