A father is at the bedside of his hospitalized disabled child.He begins crying,saying he has lost his job and no longer has insurance,so he is unsure of how to pay for the child's medical bills.What action by the nurse would be most helpful?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

There are both state and federal insurance programs for children.The nurse should arrange a visit from the social worker who can discuss the options,give information in writing,and assist the father in applying for benefits.Simply giving written information is not as helpful; the nurse has not assessed the father's literacy level,the father may have questions,or the father may not understand how to follow up.Never tell someone you know how they feel,because you don't and can't know exactly how they feel.Telling the father not to worry is dismissive of his concerns.

A Father Is at the Bedside of His Hospitalized Disabled