A nurse is caring for a dying male client who belongs to an organized religious group. How can the nurse best help the client to draw strength from his religious faith?

Question

A) Limit visitors to immediate family during prayer sessions.
B) Arrange for individuals from the client's religious group to pray with the client.
C) Have the hospital chaplain visit with the client each day.
D) Find out what religious materials would be of help to the client.

Answer 1

B
Feedback:
The nurse can best help the client by arranging for people from the client's religious group to visit and pray with the client so that he is able to draw strength from God and prayer. Limiting prayer to family members who may or may not have the client's same beliefs limits the opportunities for support of others for the client. The hospital chaplain can assist with prayer, but may not know the client well or hold the same religious beliefs as the client. Religious materials can be helpful, but they do not provide the social support of others.