The nurse is collecting biographical data during the physical assessment for a terminal patient. Which question is appropriate for the nurse to ask?
1) How long have you been ill?
2) Do you have advance directives?
3) What is your current functional capacity?
4) Are you allergic to any medications?
Question 2
The family member of a terminal patient asks, Why doesn't my mom speak to us anymore? She just gestures for us to come hold her hand. What is going on?
Based on this data, which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
1) Your mom is losing her ability to talk. That is why she is using gestures.
2) I think your mom would really prefer to die alone.
3) Your mom has entered the stage of acceptance. She wants to be close to her family and feel your touch.
4) I am not sure what you mom is experiencing. It could be that she is not coherent anymore. Do you want me to call the doctor?