An elderly client at the end of life is visited by family members. One begins to cry and asks the nurse, "Will you please stay for a few minutes?" The nurse has other clients to care for as well. Which statement by the nurse is the mosthelpful?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the end-of-life process the client's family members may be frightened, sad, confused, or concerned, and may ask staff questions about belief systems or the death process. Sometimes clients or family members simply want the nurse to sit with them and provide reassurance that their loved ones are worthy of time and attention. The most therapeutic response by the nurse is to sit with the client and/or family for at least a few minutes. (Option A) Telling family members that a nurse is busy is not a helpful response. They may feel guilty about asking for the nurse's time and attention. If needed, the nurse can ask coworkers to help with other assigned clients. (Option B) Although calling clergy members may be appropriate, it may take several hours for them to arrive. This is not the most helpful response. (Option D) Family members who ask the nurse to stay for a few minutes may have questions or need emotional support. In such cases, it is not helpful for the nurse to decline. Educational objective: During the end-of-life process, the client and family members typically go through several emotional stages, each requiring therapeutic communication techniques by the nurse. The nurse can help the client and family by providing a few minutes of time and attention. The nurse should validate the family's needs by providing emotional support.

An Elderly Client at the End of Life Is Visited