The nursing assistant is caring for a client recently diagnosed with AIDS. The client states, "I have no reason to live any longer." What is the appropriate response for the nursing assistant to make?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nursing assistant's best therapeutic response is to find out what the client means by their statement that the client has no reason to live any longer. This opens communication so the client can better articulate these feelings. The nursing assistant should report what has occurred to the nurse immediately after talking with the client, to help with depression. The nursing assistant should not focus on the disease over the client's emotional needs. Nor should the assistant minimize the client's feelings or bring up loved ones. Asking a yes-or-no question does not open communication to determine what the client means by the statement.

The Nursing Assistant Is Caring for a Client Recently Diagnosed