A widowed mother of four school-age children is hospitalized with metastatic ovarian cancer. The patient is crying and tells the nurse that she does not know what will happen to her children when she dies. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This response expresses the nurse's willingness to listen and recognizes the patient's concern. The responses beginning "Many patients with cancer live for a long time" and "For now you need to concentrate on getting well" close off discussion of the topic and indicate that the nurse is uncomfortable with the topic. In addition,the patient with metastatic ovarian cancer may not have a long time to plan. Although it is possible that the patient's friends will raise the children,more assessment information is needed before making plans.

A Widowed Mother of Four School-Age Children Is Hospitalized with Metastatic