As death approaches, a patient with AIDS says, "I do not have enough energy for many visitors anymore, and I am embarrassed about how I look. I only want to see my parents and sister.". What action should the nurse take?
a. Support the patient to share the request with the parents and sister. Suggest that they inform the patient's friends of the request.
b. Encourage the patient to reconsider this decision. Interested and caring friends can be sources of support.
c. Suggest that the patient discuss these wishes with the health care provider.
d. Place a "No Visitors" sign on the patient's door.
A
The correct response empowers the patient. As some patients approach death, they begin to withdraw. In the stage of acceptance, many patients are exhausted and tired, and interactions of a social nature are a burden. Many prefer to have someone present at the bedside who will sit without talking constantly.
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