A terminally ill patient is receiving tube feedings. When the meal tray for the roommate arrives, the patient says "that smells so good. I wish I could eat something." Which of the following should the nurse do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is stating that the smell of the food is good and he desires to eat something. The best response is to ask the patient if he is hungry or thirsty. Receiving tube feedings does not remove the natural desire for the pleasure associated with eating and drinking normally. The patient realizes that he is getting fed through the tube and the nurse explaining it to him will not take the desire for food away. The nurse has no way of knowing if the patient's desire for food will pass. Saying that the hospital meals are not that great also will not take away the patient's desire for food.

A Terminally Ill Patient Is Receiving Tube Feedings