Author Question: A patient who has just lost all her family photos in a flood asks the nurse why she seems to be ... (Read 54 times)

scienceeasy · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A patient who has just lost all her family photos in a flood asks the nurse why she seems to be suffering as much as her neighbor, who lost her entire house and all her possessions.

What can the nurse say to help explain what can be the most important factor in determining the intensity of a loss?
1. The age of the person is the most important factor in determining the intensity of the loss.
2. The gender of the person is the most important factor in determining the intensity of the loss.
3. The value of the loss is the most important factor in determining the intensity of a person's loss.
4. The meaning of the loss is the most important factor in determining the intensity of the response to loss.

Question 2

A nurse at a long-term care facility is conducting an initial interview with a patient who has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer disease. The patient is grieving the death of her spouse of 30 years.

What are some appropriate interventions the nurse might consider? Select all that apply.
1. Ask the patient if she wants to talk about her recent losses.
2. Suggest that the patient might consider joining a grief support group at the facility.
3. Advise the patient that she will soon adjust to her new circumstances and feel much better.
4. Ignore the patient's losses since she probably doesn't remember them and it is better not to remind her.
5. Ask the patient if there are any ways in which the nurse could help the patient be more comfortable in her new surroundings.
Answer: 1, 2, 5

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

Answer to Question 1

Answer: 4
Explanation: The intensity of reaction to loss varies according to the meaning of the loss to the individual. Although the age and gender may be associated factors determining the intensity of a loss, the meaning of the loss is the most significant factor. The value of the loss is a contributing but less significant factor to the intensity of loss.

Answer to Question 2

Explanation: The patient is experiencing cumulative losses and could benefit from the opportunity to discuss them. A support group with those who have experienced some similar losses might be helpful. The opportunity to suggest some changes in her surroundings could provide the patient with a sense of increased control. The nurse, in claiming that the patient will soon feel better, is making an assumption without evidence. It is not accurate to assume that patients recently diagnosed with Alzheimer disease will not be aware of their losses.