Your patient's spouse died recently from a sudden illness after ...

[Alygatorr01285]

Your patient's spouse died recently from a sudden illness after 45 years of marriage
 
  The patient was the primary caregiver for the spouse during this time. The patient is now depressed and withdrawn and has verbalized feelings of uselessness. Which action by the nurse is best?
  a. Encourage the patient take up a hobby that will occupy some time.
  b. Explain that volunteering would be an excellent way to stay useful.
  c. Assure the patient that these feelings of sadness will pass with time.
  d. Ask the patient to share some cherished memories of the spouse.

Question 2

A patient is recovering from a mild cerebral vascular accident (stroke)
 
  The home care nurse notes that the patient is talking about updating a will and planning funeral arrangements. Which of the following responses is most appropriate for the nurse to make?
  a. You seem to be preoccupied with dying.
  b. Is there anything I can do to help you?
  c. Are you worried about dying before you get your affairs in order?
  d. Let's focus on how you are recovering rather than on your dying.

[paavo]

Answer to Question 1

B
Volunteering will help the patient to interact with people and feel productive and valued for the ability to help others as stated in the activity theory. A hobby does not offer the chance to help others. Assuring the patient that feelings will pass is false reassurance and does nothing to help the patient to be proactive. Reminiscing is a valued activity, but it is not the best choice for regaining a sense of usefulness.

Answer to Question 2

B
According to Peck's expansion of Erikson's theory, the older adult who has successfully achieved ego integrity and ego transcendence accepts death with a sense of satisfaction regarding the life led and without dwelling on its inevitability. The patient's action reflects a healthy transition and should be supported.