A patient who has just lost all her family photos in a flood asks the nurse why she seems to be suffering as much as her neighbor, who lost her entire house and all her possessions. What can the nurse say to help explain what can be the most important factor in determining the intensity of a loss?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

4. The intensity of reaction to loss varies according to the meaning of the loss to the individual. Although the age and gender may be associated factors determining the intensity of a loss, the meaning of the loss is the most significant factor. The value of the loss is a contributing but less significant factor to the intensity of loss.

A Patient Who Has Just Lost All Her Family Photos