A Patient Has Had Emphysema (Lung Disease) for Many Years

A patient has had emphysema (lung disease) for many years. When approached by the nurse, the patient states "I would be better off dead." The patient supports the family, and now because of oxygen dependency the patient must quit work. The patient's spouse will have to go to work. Which action should the nurse take?

A) Develop a plan of care for the family.
B) Contact psychiatric services for a referral.
C) Assure the patient that things will work out.
D) Focus the plan of care solely on maximizing patient function.