Author Question: A patient has the nursing diagnosis Spiritual Distress. What assessment by the patient best ... (Read 33 times)

bclement10 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient has the nursing diagnosis Spiritual Distress. What assessment by the patient best indicates that an important goal has been met?

a. Observed praying quietly
b. Indecisive about treatment
c. Asks nurse if God exists
d. Executes living will

Question 2

The nurse is caring for four patients. Which one should the nurse assess for spirituality needs as a priority?

a. New mother, older child at home
b. Faces terminal diagnosis
c. Needs to change medications
d. Pleasant but quiet

lolol · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Patients may have spiritual distress when facing situations that threaten their meaning and purpose in life, such as in the face of a terminal diagnosis. Patients often express anger, frustration, neediness, or crying. The patient who has worked through this situation and is able to pray has best shown goal attainment. Indecision and questioning do not indicate the resolution of this diagnosis. Executing a living will may be an indication of pragmatism.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
There are many cues to alert the nurse that a patient might have unmet spiritual needs, including facing a terminal illness. The nurse should conduct spiritual assessments on all patients, but this one is the priority.