Your patient,a 72-year-old retired Methodist minister,has just made a decision to enter hospice care.He sighs and then states in a shaky voice,"I prayed to God for healing,but He hasn't answered.I guess it's my time to go."Your best response would be which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Your patient is experiencing spiritual distress as evidenced by his statements.It is important to take the patient's concerns seriously and to avoid responding with clichés or simple platitudes.Clichés about religion such as "God helps those who help themselves" or "I know God cares for you," are inappropriate because they are patronizing and tend to trivialize both the patient's problems and his religion.Therefore,options "a" and "b" are incorrect.The nurse should demonstrate respect for the patient's beliefs by offering to call friends,relatives,or clergy who could provide spiritual support.Option "d" is incorrect because medication is not the most appropriate method for providing relief from spiritual distress.

Your Patient,a 72-Year-Old Retired Methodist Minister,has Just Made a Decision