A client newly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease expresses concerns to the nurse about how she and her family will cope with the disease. The response to the concerns is based on the knowledge that:

Question

1. Involvement with a support group that focuses on a specific disease process has been proven to be very helpful.
2. Most clients need to foster a strong family/friend-based support system to effectively cope with their disease.
3. A period of depression is generally experienced initially by everyone affected by the disease process.
4. Coping with the disease will come more naturally as the client becomes familiar with the limitations it creates.

Answer 1

Involvement with a support group that focuses on a specific disease process has been proven to be very helpful.

Rationale: Parkinson's support organizations offer understanding and hope for both the patients and their families. Local and national support groups provide information, educational programs, and social activities tailored especially for people with PD. While a strong family/friend support system is important, it does not usually occur without initial supplementary support. Depression is not necessarily seen in all clients, and realization that it may occur does not address the client's concerns. Coping may improve as the client becomes familiar with the disease process, but that realization does not help address the client's current needs.