An older adult client on a palliative care unit divulges to his ...

[wenmo]

An older adult client on a palliative care unit divulges to his nurse that he fears being in pain during the dying process. How can the nurse best respond to the client's admission?
 
  A) It sounds like you're understandably anxious about this. How can I help you to relax?
  B) A lot of clients do have pain at the end, and we will do all we can to control it for you.
  C) We will do all we can to address it, and you'll be able to have a peaceful passing.
  D) Pain during the dying process actually is not nearly as common as many people believe.

Question 2

A nurse explores resources available to assist a client. Which of the following older adults meets the eligibility requirements for hospice care?
 
  A) A client who is immobilized and unable to afford specialized nursing care
  B) A client who has experienced a stroke and been given 3 months to live
  C) A client with cancer who is living with uncontrolled persistent pain
  D) A client with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome who lacks family support to provide needed care

[matt]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: B
Acknowledging that a lot of clients do have pain at the end and that staff will do all they can to control it both acknowledges the client's specific concern and provides a realistic response that the pain will be treated as effectively as possible, but does not guarantee a pain-free dying process. Acknowledging the anxiety and offering relaxation assistance do not address the specific concern about pain. Stating that the client will have a peaceful passing makes a promise that is not possible to guarantee. Pain is a common accompaniment to the dying process.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: B
The eligibility requirements for hospice care include physician referral and a life expectancy of less than 6 months. Financial need, high pain levels, and lack of family support are not explicit qualifiers for hospice care.

[wenmo]

TY

[matt]

Happy to Help