A client on hospice home care is taking sips of water but refusing food. Family members appear distressed and insist that the personal care worker "force feed" the client. What is the priority nursing action? A)Explain to the family that this is a normal physiological response to dying B)Explore the family's thoughts and concerns about the client's refusal of food C)Recommend a feeding tube D)Tell the family that "force feeding" the client could cause the client to choke on the food

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a terminally ill person refuses food, family members often become upset and frustrated in their roles of nurturers and caregivers; they may feel personally rejected. Refusal of food is associated with "giving up" and is a reminder that their loved one is dying. It is not uncommon for family members to believe that a client would get stronger by eating instead of refusing food. The registered nurse needs to explore family members' concerns and fears and listen as they express their feelings. The nurse can help them identify other ways to express how they care. The nurse should also provide education about the effects of food and water during all stages of the illness. (Option A) Families and caregivers need to understand the effects of food and water in all stages of a terminal illness; however, it is more important to first explore the family's feelings and concerns. (Option C) Although it is not unusual for a client to be admitted to hospice with a feeding tube already in place, tubes are generally not placed after a client begins receiving hospice services. (Option D) This is a true statement, but it is not the priority nursing action. Educational objective: It is very common for family members to become distressed when a terminally ill loved one refuses food. The nurse needs to explore their fears and concerns and help them identify other ways to express how they care.

A Client on Hospice Home Care Is Taking Sips of Water