A terminally ill patient tells the nurse, Life has been good. I ...

[madam-professor]

A terminally ill patient tells the nurse, Life has been good. I am proud of being self-educated. I overcame adversity with willpower. I always gave my best and expected things to turn out well. I intend to die as I lived: optimistically.
 
  The nurse planning care for this patient recognizes a critical need to:
 
  a. provide aggressive pain and symptom management.
  b. help the patient reassess and explore existing conflicts.
  c. assist the patient to focus on the meaning in life and death.
  d. support the patient's use of personal resources to meet challenges.

Question 2

A family asks the nurse, What can we say when our terminally ill family member mentions death is coming soon? Which response could the nurse suggest?
 
  a. We think you will be around for a long time.
  b. We don't want you to give up trying to get well.
  c. We don't think we're ready to talk about this yet.
  d. We feel so sad when we think of life without you.

[ApricotDream]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
The patient whose intrinsic strength and endurance have been a hallmark often wishes to approach dying by staying optimistic and in control. Helping the patient use his or her resources to meet challenges is appropriate.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
This response is emotionally honest. It will allow the family opportunities to express emotions and further resolve issues in the relationship and explore end-of-life developmental opportunities. The incorrect options are evasive.

[madam-professor]

Excellent

[upturnedfurball]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it