The nurse is admitting a client to the emergency department (ED) who is unconscious following a head injury. The client's spouse and children stay at the client's side and constantly ask about the treatment being given. What of the following actions is bestfor the nurse to take?
A)Ask the family to stay in the waiting room until the initial assessment is completed.
B)Allow the family to stay with the client and briefly explain all procedures to them.
C)Call the family's pastor or spiritual advisor to support them while initial care is given.
D)Refer the family members to the hospital counselling service to deal with their anxiety.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The need for information about the diagnosis and care is very high in family members of acutely ill clients, and the nurse should allow the family to observe care and explain the procedures. A pastor or counselling service can offer some support, but research supports information as being more effective. Asking the family to stay in the waiting room will increase their anxiety.

The Nurse Is Admitting a Client to the Emergency Department