The nurse is caring for a terminally ill patient.In order to provide optimal care,the nurse tries to anticipate patient needs.What does the nurse understand about this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Anxiety has physical causes such as shortness of breath,pain,fear of death,spiritual concerns,and relationship concerns.As patients approach death,they breathe through the mouth,the tongue becomes dry,and lips become dry and cracked.Blinking reflexes diminish near death; and eyes often remain open,causing drying of cornea.Opioid medications and immobility slow peristalsis.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Terminally Ill Patient