During a child's last stage of dying, the parents ask if the child is able to hear. What should the nurse respond to the parents?

Question

A) "No, now that she is semicomatose, she is unable to hear you.".
B) "No one really knows, so it is a good idea not to speak too loudly.".
C) "Yes, she is able to hear and fully comprehend everything that is said.".
D) "Yes, she can hear and may also understand most of what is being said.".

Answer 1

D
Feedback:
A loss of consciousness occurs as children grow closer and closer to death; although, they may remain perfectly alert until seconds before death. Because hearing is one of the last senses lost, the nurse may need to remind family members and other health care personnel that the child may not be able to respond but may be able to hear. Continue to explain procedures to unconscious children as if they were conscious because they undoubtedly do hear. Never make any comment in the child's presence that would not be made if the child were alert.