An adolescent experiencing status asthmaticus is rushed to the emergency department by ambulance. The parents arrive and ask to see their child. The triage nurse at the reception desk knows that the adolescent was pronounced dead on arrival. Which is the best action by the triage nurse at this time?
A) Ask the parents to please take a seat in the waiting room.
B) Immediately escort the parents to a quiet, private room.
C) Tell the parents that they must wait because only the healthcare provider can talk with them.
D) Immediately tell the parents, "I'm sorry, but your child didn't make it."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best action by the triage nurse is to immediately escort the parents to a quiet, private room to provide them with the news of their child's passing. The news should be delivered in a sensitive and compassionate manner. The waiting room is not an appropriate location, and telling the parents to wait or immediately providing the news without privacy and sensitivity could be detrimental to their emotional well-being.

An Adolescent Experiencing Status Asthmaticus Is Rushed to the Emergency