A nurse is providing postmortem care for a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason : Prolonged grief, also known as complicated grief, is characterized by an intense longing and preoccupation with thoughts or memories of a loved one, which persists long after the loss has occurred. It can significantly impair important areas of functioning and is defined by the DSM-5-TR as grief that stays with you long-term. The client's inability to accept the loss after three years suggests that they may be experiencing prolonged grief, which may require the guidance of a mental health professional for resolution.

Choice B reason : Uncomplicated grief, also known as normal grief, involves a range of feelings, including sadness, anger, and longing, that gradually start to improve over time. The person experiencing uncomplicated grief will begin to accept the loss and resume normal activities. Since the client is still unable to accept the loss after three years, this would not be classified as uncomplicated grief.

Choice C reason : Disenfranchised grief occurs when an individual's grief is not acknowledged or validated by society, often because the relationship to the deceased is not recognized, such as in the case of a pet or a distant relative. This type of grief is not typically associated with the duration of the grief but rather with the social context in which the grieving occurs.

Choice D reason : Anticipatory grief occurs before the actual loss, often in situations where a loved one is terminally ill. It involves grieving the impending loss and can include some of the same emotions as post-loss grief. Since the client's partner has already died, this would not be considered anticipatory grief.

Choice A reason : Allow extra time to communicate with the client.Allowing extra time to communicate is essential when caring for clients with impaired speech. This approach respects the client's pace and supports their efforts to express themselves, which can be a time-consuming process. It also helps to reduce frustration and anxiety that the client may feel if rushed⁵.

Choice B reason : Ask open-ended questions.Asking open-ended questions to a client with impaired speech can be challenging for them to answer and may lead to frustration. Instead, it's recommended to ask yes/no questions or provide choices to facilitate easier communication⁵.

Choice C reason : Finish sentences for the client.Finishing sentences for a client with impaired speech is generally discouraged as it can lead to miscommunication and may make the client feel disempowered. It's important to allow the client to express themselves in their own words and time⁵.

Choice D reason : Avoid using visual aids for communication.Using visual aids can be very helpful for clients with impaired speech. Visual aids such as pictures, gestures, or writing can support understanding and expression, making communication more effective⁵.