The spouse of a client nearing death is concerned because the client's breathing is "so noisy." How should the nurse refer to the client's respiratory status when talking with the spouse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using the term "congestion" is a more gentle way of referring to the client's noisy breathing without causing undue alarm or anxiety in the spouse. The other options (pneumonia, fluid in the lungs, death rattle) may be accurate descriptors but have a more negative connotation and could cause unnecessary distress for the spouse.

The Spouse of a Client Nearing Death Is Concerned Because