A nurse is caring for a group of clients in a long-term care facility. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent healthcare-associated infections for these clients? (Select all that apply.)

The correct answer is choice d. Actual loss.

Choice A rationale: Complicated grief refers to an intense and prolonged period of mourning that interferes with daily life. It is not typically associated with the immediate postoperative period following a mastectomy.

Choice B rationale: Maturational loss is related to the normal life transitions and developmental changes, such as children leaving home or retirement. It does not apply to the loss experienced after a mastectomy.

Choice C rationale: Disenfranchised grief occurs when a person’s grief is not socially recognized or supported, such as the loss of a pet or an ex-spouse. While the grief after a mastectomy can be profound, it is generally acknowledged and supported by healthcare providers and society.

Choice D rationale: Actual loss refers to the tangible loss of a person, object, or body part. In this case, the client is experiencing the loss of a breast, which is a significant and visible change to their body. This type of loss can deeply affect a person’s self-image and emotional well-being.

The correct answer is choice D: A client who has just experienced the death of their child.

Choice A rationale:

Offering silence to a client who plans to leave the facility against medical advice might not be the most appropriate therapeutic communication technique. Silence in this situation could be misconstrued as ignoring the client's concerns or not addressing their reasons for wanting to leave. Active listening and open-ended questioning would likely be more effective in understanding and addressing the client's concerns.

Choice B rationale:

A client who informs the nurse that they have made their funeral arrangements is expressing thoughts and emotions that might require sensitive communication. Silence in this context could be interpreted as neglecting the client's need for support and empathy. The nurse should engage in a compassionate conversation and encourage the client to share their feelings.

Choice C rationale:

For a client who tells the nurse that the night shift nurse did not bring their medication, silence would not be the most suitable response. This situation calls for clarification and action, as the nurse needs to address the medication discrepancy promptly. Engaging in open communication and resolving the issue is essential here.

Choice D rationale:

A client who has just experienced the death of their child is likely overwhelmed with grief and intense emotions. In this scenario, using the therapeutic communication technique of silence can provide the client with a supportive space to process their feelings. Offering a moment of silence acknowledges the depth of their emotions and gives them the opportunity to express themselves when they are ready.