The spouse of a patient with end-stage renal disease sits quietly at the patient's bedside, staring at the patient as the patient slips into a coma. What should the nurse do at this time?
a. Ask the spouse what plans have been made for the patient once death occurs.
b. Remind the spouse to use the call light if the patient wakes up wanting something.
c. Sit down with the spouse and engage in conversation about the patient's care needs.
d. Suggest the spouse return home, as the patient is unaware of the spouse being there.
____
ANS: C
When a patient is dying, the family is in crisis. The nurse needs to sit with patients and families in crisis, sustain eye contact, and support them in their process. A. Asking the spouse about plans once the patient dies is inappropriate. B. Reminding the spouse to use the call light is harsh and does not support the patient or family's needs at this time. D. Suggesting the spouse return home may interrupt the time that the spouse has left to spend with the patient.
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