The nurse cares for a client whose husband of 50 years died last week. The nurse arrives at her home to find her staring out of a window in a stupor, her face devoid of any emotion

Question

When the nurse speaks with her, the client seems withdrawn and distant. Which phase of grief should the nurse most suspect this client to be in?
A) Numb shock
B) Emotional turmoil
C) Reorganization
D) Resolution

Answer 1

Ans: A
Feedback:
In the numb shock phase of grief, the widow or widower cannot believe the spouse's death occurred. This phase is marked by shock, emotional dullness, and restless behavior that may include stupor and withdrawal. One wants to protect oneself from the feeling of loss. In the emotional turmoil or depression phase of grief, alarm or panic-type reactions occur. Emotional expression may include crying, low mood, sleep disturbance, and anorexia. Anger, guilt, or longing for the deceased may take place. The widow or widower may also become preoccupied with the meaning of the loss. In the reorganization or resolution phase of grief, coping strategies and positive outlooks emerge. A final resolution phase leads to acceptance of the loss. The widow or widower may return to prior levels of functioning.