A 79-year-old experienced a severe stroke several days ago. The ...

[Redwolflake15]

A 79-year-old experienced a severe stroke several days ago. The client's spouse has been told by the care team that he is unlikely to survive more than a few days and that aggressive treatment would likely be futile.
 
  The nurse has just entered the client's room to find the spouse softly crying at the bedside, and makes no attempt to acknowledge the nurse's presence. What is the nurse's most therapeutic response to the client's wife?
 
  A) Do you feel like he was able to live a full life?
  B) Did you feel like you were able to discuss his treatment options thoroughly?
  C) What is it that makes you the saddest about your husband's situation?
  D) I am here; should I leave you alone for now?

Question 2

A nurse cares for an 87-year-old client from India who has noted Hinduism as religious preference on admission records. This client is transferred to the hospice unit. Which of the following actions by the nurse best shows caring?
 
  A) Ask the family to tell you about Hinduism.
  B) Assess the client's spiritual needs.
  C) Notify the family's pastor.
  D) Pray with the client and family.

[jesse.fleming]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: D
In light of the fact that the wife is grieving quietly and has not acknowledged the nurse's presence, it is likely appropriate to offer to leave her alone. Alluding to treatment options, a full life, or particularly sad aspects of the situation is inappropriate.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: B
Spiritual assessment should take place on admission and throughout the client's time in palliative care. Spiritual care is within the scope of nursing, and prayer would be appropriate if it were chosen based on a sound assessment of the client's needs and belief system. Nurses should be prepared to refer to whatever spiritual leader the client expresses a desire to speak with. Now is not the time to query, it is the time to listen.