A client who recently lost their spouse to a terminal illness expresses, "I just can't go on without them. Life feels meaningless now." Which statement by the nurse would be appropriate in this situation?
"You shouldn't feel that way. There are many people who care about you.".
"I understand how you feel. Grief can be overwhelming.".
"You need to stay strong for your children.".
"Try not to think about it too much. Time heals all wounds.".
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Telling the client that they shouldn't feel a certain way and suggesting that others care about them minimizes their emotions and can be invalidating. It's essential to acknowledge the client's feelings without dismissing them.
Choice B rationale:
Expressing understanding and acknowledging the overwhelming nature of grief is appropriate and empathetic. This response validates the client's emotions and creates a safe space for them to express their feelings.
Choice C rationale:
While the intention behind encouraging the client to stay strong for their children might be positive, it oversimplifies the complexity of grief and emotional responses. Grief is a personal experience, and implying that they should suppress their emotions for the sake of others is not ideal.
Choice D rationale:
Suggesting that the client avoid thinking about their loss or that time will heal their wounds can invalidate their current emotional state. Grief doesn't always follow a linear path, and minimizing the impact of the loss can hinder the client's healing process.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
The correct answers are A. Expressing hopelessness or worthlessness, C. Increasing alcohol or drug use, D. Talking about wanting to die, and E. Withdrawing or isolating oneself.
Choice A rationale:
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness is a significant warning sign of suicide. These feelings often indicate severe emotional distress and a lack of perceived future.
Choice B rationale:
Engaging in positive coping strategies is generally a protective factor against suicide, not a warning sign.
Choice C rationale:
Increasing alcohol or drug use can be a sign of self-medicating to cope with emotional pain, which is a common warning sign of suicidal ideation.
Choice D rationale:
Talking about wanting to die is a direct indicator of suicidal thoughts and should always be taken seriously.
Choice E rationale:
Withdrawing or isolating oneself is a common behavior in individuals contemplating suicide, as they may feel disconnected from others or believe they are a burden.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Collaborate with the patient and the healthcare team.
Choice A rationale:
Prioritize long-term goals over short-term outcomes. This choice is not the most appropriate principle to consider in the planning phase for a patient with suicidal ideation. While setting long-term goals is important, immediate safety and addressing the patient's emotional state take precedence in this situation.
Choice B rationale:
Develop a rigid and unchangeable plan of care. This choice is not suitable for a patient with suicidal ideation. Flexibility in the plan of care is essential to accommodate the patient's changing emotional state and needs. A rigid plan might not effectively address the dynamic nature of suicidal ideation.
Choice C rationale:
Focus only on the patient's physical health. This choice is not comprehensive enough for a patient with suicidal ideation. While physical health is important, addressing the patient's emotional well-being, safety, and mental health concerns should be a priority in the plan of care.
Choice D rationale:
Collaborate with the patient and the healthcare team. This choice is the most appropriate principle to consider. Collaboration involves actively involving the patient in the care planning process and working with the healthcare team to develop a holistic plan that addresses the patient's emotional, psychological, and safety needs. Inclusion of the patient's perspective enhances engagement and increases the likelihood of successful interventions.
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