An older adult client with terminal liver failure is transitioning to the active phase of dying in an inpatient hospice unit. The client's spouse, who previously helped finalize the client's memorial service, suddenly begins packing the client's belongings into a suitcase. The spouse states to the practical nurse, 'The palliative treatments here are useless. I am taking him to the emergency department across town so they can finally fix his liver.' Which statement by the practical nurse is the most appropriate initial response?
- You must be feeling incredibly overwhelmed right now. Let's sit down for a moment and talk about what you are hoping they can do at the emergency department.Cevap
- BI recognize that you are experiencing the denial stage of grief again, but we must focus on providing his current comfort care.
- CWhy do you want to transfer him to the hospital when the provider has already explained that his condition is irreversible?
- DI understand this is a terrifying experience, but everything will work out for the best once he is resting comfortably.
Cevap
The most appropriate initial response is to acknowledge the spouse's overwhelming emotions and use open-ended communication to explore their current feelings and goals without immediately confronting the denial.
The correct response uses the therapeutic techniques of empathy and open-ended questioning. By validating that the spouse is feeling overwhelmed and inviting them to sit and talk, the nurse acknowledges the acute emotional distress without aggressively confronting the denial. This approach builds trust and helps de-escalate the immediate crisis.
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Anahtar Kavram
Therapeutic Communication and Non-Linear Grief in End-of-Life Care