The nurse is caring for a male patient newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus.The patient is not adjusting well to the diagnosis and is refusing to learn how to self-inject insulin.The patient's wife is critical of the patient's refusal to learn; a small argument ensues,and the wife leaves,stating,"I'll be back later when I cool off." What should the nurse do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although relationships are strained when confronted with illness,research indicates that family members have the potential to be a primary force for coping.Excluding the wife would limit that potential.The "unacceptable behavior," in this situation,may be the way this individual expresses concern and frustration.The nurse may want to speak with the wife to allow her to vent those concerns and frustrations.Telling the patient that he needs to listen to his wife would set up an adversarial situation that should be avoided.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Male Patient Newly Diagnosed