In a sad voice,a patient tells the nurse of the recent deaths of a spouse of 50 years and their adult child in an automobile accident.The patient has no other family and only a few friends in the community.What is the priority nursing diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient appears to be experiencing normal grief related to the loss of the family;however,because of age and social isolation,the risk for suicide should be determined and has high priority.No defining characteristics exist for the diagnosis of anxiety or spiritual distress.Risk for suicide is a higher priority than social isolation.

In a Sad Voice,a Patient Tells the Nurse of the Recent