D.H.'s family is staying at a nearby motel. His adult son brings his mother to the hospital

Question

Mrs. H. says she just wants to stay with her husband around the clock.

She states, "I took
care of him for 35 years now, and I'm not going to abandon him now when he needs me the
most." Recognizing that these are stressful times for all involved, how will you respond?

Answer 1

• Encourage her and other family members to participate in D.H.'s care.
• Work out a schedule with the family so that she can stay with him as much as policy will allow and
still get adequate food and rest. Stick to the plan.
• Ask her to always let you know where she can be found. If she does not have a cell phone and she
is financially able, she might rent a pager or purchase a disposable cell phone. Promise you will be
in contact if his condition changes.
• Make certain that the plan is posted for other nurses and physicians to see.
• You might consider asking whether the family would like to talk with a spiritual counselor.
Acknowledge the legitimacy of her fear.