A patient who claims to be very involved in church is near death. What action by the nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Organized religions use rituals to mark important life events such as birth, marriage, and death. This patient would most likely want end-of-life rituals as practiced in his/her church. The nurse's best action is to contact the religious leader (with permission) of that church or institution. Allowing the family to remain at the bedside is important but not the best option to care for the patient's spirituality needs. The hospital chaplain is a valuable resource, but the patient's own religious leader would be better. Praying with the family is always acceptable, but it is best to let the family take the lead in prayer.

A Patient Who Claims to Be Very Involved in Church