The nurse is caring for a child who has a diagnosis of metastatic brain cancer. The father states "I can't believe this is happening to us, I feel numb." Which of the following nursing interventions by the nurse is the first priority?
Instruct the family about anticipatory grieving
Explore effective ways of family coping
Encourage the family’s expression of their feelings
Discuss the disease and its manifestations with family members
The Correct Answer is C
A. Instruct the family about anticipatory grieving: While anticipatory grieving is important, it is better addressed after the family has had time to express initial feelings.
B. Explore effective ways of family coping: This is important but should come after encouraging the family to process their immediate feelings.
C. Encourage the family’s expression of their feelings. The first priority is to allow the family to express their emotions and begin the grieving process. Encouraging emotional expression helps the family cope with the overwhelming news and facilitates their emotional support needs.
D. Discuss the disease and its manifestations with family members: While understanding the disease is essential, focusing on the family's emotional response is more critical at this initial stage of shock and grief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Additional laboratory tests: While monitoring is essential, at this stage, the priority is comfort, not disease progression.
B. Pain and discomfort: Mrs. Thompson is nearing the end of life and likely experiencing pain due to her advanced metastatic cancer. Pain management should always be a priority in palliative care.
C. Physical therapy: Physical therapy is not typically a priority in the end-of-life stage where the focus is on comfort rather than mobility.
D. Elevated blood pressure: This is unlikely to be the primary concern at this stage. Blood pressure is usually low, and interventions should be focused on comfort and symptom relief.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will only take my medications when I remember, as long as I don't have any symptoms.": Inconsistent medication adherence, especially for chronic conditions, can lead to poor control and complications.
B. "I will avoid discussing my symptoms with my healthcare provider unless they become severe.": Early reporting of symptoms is critical for timely intervention and adjustment of the treatment plan.
C. "I will follow the treatment plan exactly as prescribed, even if I start to feel better before the treatment is complete." Adherence to the prescribed treatment plan ensures effective management of chronic conditions and prevents complications or relapse. Stopping treatment prematurely, even when symptoms improve, can lead to worsening conditions or incomplete recovery.
D. "I will seek immediate medical attention for any new or worsening symptoms, even if they seem minor.": While seeking attention for worsening symptoms is important, interpreting all minor changes as emergencies may lead to unnecessary healthcare utilization.
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