The nurse is caring for a client whose family does not want to ...

[kaid0807]

The nurse is caring for a client whose family does not want to tell him that he is dying. What is the nurse's best action according to these wishes?
 
  1. Arrange an encounter with the client and tell him the truth.
  2. Change the subject when the client asks about his impending death.
  3. Tell the family that the patient has the right to know that he is dying.
  4. Talk to the family about the situation and their concerns.

Question 2

What is the most important communication strategy for the nurse to use when working with a child who is dying?
 
  1. Talk to the child at the appropriate level of understanding.
  2. Be totally open and honest with the child.
  3. Avoid discussing death with the child.
  4. Encourage the family to talk with the child about the impending death.

[nathang24]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: The nurse should not talk with the client before discussing the situation with the family.
Rationale 2: The nurse should not change the subject if the client asks about impending death, but should not encourage such an encounter before discussing the situation with the family.
Rationale 3: The nurse should discuss the reasons why the family does not want the client to be aware of impending death before offering advice.
Rationale 4: In this situation, the best and first thing the nurse should do is talk with the family about what is happening and what their concerns are. The nurse should investigate religious, cultural, and family traditions regarding telling the client about impending death.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale: While it is very important to be open and honest with the child and may be appropriate to encourage the family to talk with the child about impending death, the most important strategy is to talk with the child at the appropriate level of understanding. Without recognition of this concept, none of the other options will be effective. The nurse should not avoid discussing death with the child if the child brings up the subject.