A child has recently been diagnosed with leukemia.The client's sibling is 6 years old and expressing feelings of anger and guilt.This reaction by the sibling is very upsetting to the parents.How should the nurse explain the sibling's behavior?
A) "This behavior is abnormal. I will have the physician refer you to a psychologist."
B) "This behavior is just the sibling's way to get attention."
C) "This is a normal response. Your other child is also affected by the diagnosis and anger and guilt are expected feelings for a 6-year-old."
D) "Your other child should not be so upset. The cancer is easily treated."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A) A diagnosis of cancer affects the whole family, and initial feelings experienced by the sibling may be anger and guilt. Seldom will the sibling be unaffected; however, the response is not abnormal. Although the sibling may want attention, this is not the best response by the nurse.
B) A diagnosis of cancer affects the whole family, and initial feelings experienced by the sibling may be anger and guilt. Seldom will the sibling be unaffected; however, the response is not abnormal. Although the sibling may want attention, this is not the best response by the nurse.
C) A diagnosis of cancer affects the whole family, and initial feelings experienced by the sibling may be anger and guilt. Seldom will the sibling be unaffected; however, the response is not abnormal. Although the sibling may want attention, this is not the best response by the nurse.
D) A diagnosis of cancer affects the whole family, and initial feelings experienced by the sibling may be anger and guilt. Seldom will the sibling be unaffected; however, the response is not abnormal. Although the sibling may want attention, this is not the best response by the nurse.

A Child Has Recently Been Diagnosed with Leukemia