A 72-year-old Arabian American patient has just been diagnosed with cancer of the colon. The family does not want the patient to be told about the diagnosis. Which action by the nurse is best initially?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should respect the family's wishes but also explore their reasons for wanting to withhold the information. The nurse should also educate the family about the patient's right to know about their condition and the potential consequences of not sharing this information. However, the nurse must ultimately prioritize patient autonomy and informed decision-making.

A 72-Year-Old Arabian American Patient Has Just Been Diagnosed with Cancer