A patient with terminal lymphoma says to the nurse, "I'm tired of being so fatigued all the time. Can't you just give me a big shot of morphine and help me end this suffering?" Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
a. "You sound frustrated. It must be difficult to feel so tired all the time."
b. "Are you sure that is what you want me to do? Maybe you should think about it first."
c. "That is really not appropriate to ask. Would you like a shot just to take away the pain?"
d. "You have orders for morphine 10 to 15 mg. I don't think that's enough to end your suffering."
ANS: A
It is not the role of the nurse to end a life—it is appropriate to help lessen suffering. The nurse's response allows the patient to further verbalize concerns, which the nurse can then address. B, C, and D do not address the patient's concern.
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