A patient has been grieving the loss of a spouse and seems to be doing surprisingly well when a beloved pet dies.The patient demonstrates extreme signs of sadness and despair,saying,"I cannot possibly go on without Kitty." When working with the family,what does the nurse suggest?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This patient is demonstrating a delayed or postponed grief reaction.Doing "surprisingly well" may indicate a lack of grief response at the original loss,then an exaggerated reaction to a smaller,subsequent loss.The most appropriate action is to refer the patient and family to a grief counselor who can help the patient work through both losses.Getting another cat dismisses the importance of the first one.A physician visit may be needed,but a grief counselor is more appropriate.Taking the patient on a trip will not help resolve the situation.

A Patient Has Been Grieving the Loss of a Spouse