A nurse is caring for a client who was recently diagnosed with a terminal illness. The client tells the nurse, “I am looking forward to seeing my grandchildren grow up.” The nurse should identify that the client is experiencing which of the following stages of grief?
Denial
Anger
Bargaining
Acceptance
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Denial is the first stage of grief, where individuals refuse to accept the reality of their situation. In this case, the client is looking forward to a future event (seeing their grandchildren grow up) despite being diagnosed with a terminal illness. This indicates that the client is not acknowledging the severity of their condition and is instead holding onto a hopeful but unrealistic outcome. Denial serves as a defense mechanism to protect the individual from the immediate shock and pain of their diagnosis.
Choice B Reason:
Anger is the second stage of grief, characterized by feelings of frustration and helplessness. Individuals in this stage may direct their anger towards themselves, others, or the situation. The client’s statement does not reflect anger or frustration but rather an unrealistic hope for the future, which aligns more with denial than anger.
Choice C Reason:
Bargaining is the third stage of grief, where individuals attempt to negotiate or make deals to alter their situation. This stage often involves “if only” or “what if” statements as the person tries to regain control. The client’s statement does not indicate any form of negotiation or deal-making but rather a refusal to accept the reality of their terminal illness.
Choice D Reason:
Acceptance is the final stage of grief, where individuals come to terms with their situation and begin to plan for the future realistically5. In this stage, there is an acknowledgment of the loss and a gradual adjustment to the new reality. The client’s statement about looking forward to seeing their grandchildren grow up does not reflect acceptance but rather a denial of the terminal nature of their illness.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Changing the dressing four times per day is excessive and not typically recommended. Most guidelines suggest changing the dressing once a day or as needed if it becomes soiled or wet. Over-frequent dressing changes can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Choice B Reason:
Applying tincture of benzoin prior to removing the dressing is not a standard practice for wound care. Tincture of benzoin is usually used to increase the adhesion of bandages or tapes, not for removing dressings. Using it inappropriately could cause skin irritation or damage.
Choice C Reason:
Cleaning from the incision to the surrounding skin is the correct method. This technique helps prevent the spread of bacteria from the surrounding skin into the incision site, reducing the risk of infection. Always use a sterile solution and clean gauze for this process.
Choice D Reason:
Using sterile gloves when removing the old dressing is important to maintain a sterile environment and prevent infection. However, this is a general practice and not specific to the wound care instructions provided in the question.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Telling the client about the benefits of the surgery might seem helpful, but it does not address the client’s immediate concern. The client has expressed a clear decision to refuse the surgery, and the nurse must respect this decision by informing the surgeon. This approach aligns with the ethical principle of respecting patient autonomy.
Choice B Reason:
Letting the client know that their surgeon will be notified of their decision is the correct action. This respects the client’s autonomy and ensures that the surgeon is aware of the client’s wishes. It also allows for further discussion between the client and the surgeon, where the client can receive more detailed information and support.
Choice C Reason:
Reassuring the client that it is expected to be nervous before surgery is supportive but does not address the client’s refusal. While it is important to acknowledge the client’s feelings, the nurse must also take appropriate steps to respect the client’s decision and inform the surgeon.
Choice D Reason:
Informing the client that it is too late to stop the surgery is incorrect and unethical. Patients have the right to refuse treatment at any time, and it is the nurse’s duty to respect and facilitate this decision.