Author Question: A nurse manager notices that a staff member spends minimal time with a patient who is terminally ill ... (Read 78 times)

Yi-Chen · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A nurse manager notices that a staff member spends minimal time with a patient who is terminally ill with AIDS. The patient says, I'm having intense emotional reactions to this illness. Sometimes I feel angry, but other times I feel afraid or abandoned.

The nurse manager can correctly hypothesize that the most likely reason for the staff member's avoidance is:

a. high risk for infection transmission.
b. feelings of inadequacy in dealing with complex emotional needs.
c. knowledge that the patient needs time alone with family and friends.
d. belief that the patient's former lifestyle included high-risk behaviors.

Question 2

As death approaches, a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) says, I don't want to see a lot of visitors anymore. Just my parents and my sibling can come in for a while each day. What action should the nurse take?

a. Ask the patient to reconsider the decision because many interested and caring friends can be sources of support.
b. Discuss the request with the parents and sibling. Suggest that they explain the patient's decision to friends.
c. Suggest that the patient discuss these wishes with the health care provider.
d. Place a no visitors sign on the patient's door.

ilianabrrr · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Many nurses tend to be more comfortable with meeting physical needs than in focusing on emotional needs. Standard precautions are necessary for all patients. The patient's lifestyle is irrelevant.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
As many patients approach death, they begin to withdraw. In the stage of acceptance, many patients are exhausted and tired, and interactions of a social nature are a burden. Many prefer to have someone present at the bedside who will sit without constantly talking.