A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with end-stage liver cancer. Which response is an indication the client is in the denial phase of the grief process?
“The doctor says I only have a few months to live, but I know he is exaggerating to get me to take my medication.”
“I can’t believe the doctor graduated from medical school. He doesn’t know a thing about treating cancer!”
“Even though I am not hurting right now, I don’t feel like I have the energy to get out of bed.”
“The doctor has been so good to me. I know he has tried everything he can. It is just my time.”
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This statement reflects denial, which is a common initial reaction in the grief process. The client is not accepting the reality of their prognosis and believes the doctor is exaggerating. Denial serves as a defense mechanism to protect the individual from the emotional impact of the diagnosis. It is a way for the client to cope with the overwhelming news by rejecting its truth.

Choice B reason: This statement reflects anger, another stage in the grief process. The client is expressing disbelief and frustration towards the doctor’s competence. Anger often follows denial and is directed towards others as a way to cope with the emotional pain. It is not indicative of denial but rather a progression in the grieving process.
Choice C reason: This statement reflects acceptance of the physical symptoms and the reality of the client’s condition. The client acknowledges their lack of energy and the impact of the illness on their daily life. This is not a sign of denial but rather an acceptance of their current state.
Choice D reason: This statement reflects acceptance and gratitude towards the doctor. The client recognizes the efforts made by the healthcare team and accepts that their time is limited. This is a sign of acceptance, the final stage in the grief process, where the individual comes to terms with their situation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Referring a client because the unit is too busy is not an appropriate reason for a healthcare referral. Referrals should be based on the client’s specific needs and the expertise required to address those needs. Overcrowding or busyness of a unit should be managed through internal resources and staffing adjustments rather than referrals.
Choice B reason: When the care needed for the client is out of the healthcare provider’s scope of practice, a referral is necessary. This ensures that the client receives the appropriate level of care from a specialist or another provider with the required expertise. Referrals help in providing comprehensive and specialized care that the initial provider may not be equipped to deliver.
Choice C reason: Referring a client because they do not have insurance is not appropriate. Healthcare providers should assist clients in finding resources and support for their care needs, regardless of their insurance status. Referrals should be based on clinical needs, not financial or insurance considerations.
Choice D reason: Referring a client because they are late is not a valid reason for a healthcare referral. Timeliness is important, but it should not determine the need for a referral. Providers should address the reasons for lateness and work with the client to ensure they receive the necessary care.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: While chest physiotherapy can help mobilize secretions, it does not specifically promote the flow of secretions to the base of the lungs. The primary goal is to loosen and mobilize secretions so they can be coughed up and cleared from the airways. This helps improve overall lung function and oxygenation.
Choice B reason: Chest physiotherapy does not eliminate the need to cough. In fact, coughing is an essential part of the process as it helps expel the loosened secretions from the airways. The therapy aims to make coughing more effective by loosening the mucus.
Choice C reason: The primary purpose of chest physiotherapy with percussion and vibration is to help clear the airways of excessive secretions. This is particularly important for patients with conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, or pneumonia, where mucus buildup can obstruct the airways and impair breathing. By loosening and mobilizing the secretions, the therapy facilitates their removal through coughing.
Choice D reason: Chest physiotherapy does not limit the production of bronchial mucus. It focuses on clearing existing mucus from the airways rather than reducing its production. The production of mucus is influenced by underlying conditions and may require other treatments to manage.
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