The 70-year-old client with terminal lung cancer tells the nurse, "I am dying because I sinned by smoking cigarettes." What is the nurse's best response to this dying client?
1. "You are correct, but it is too late to do anything about it now."
2. "When you started smoking cigarettes we didn't know about the problems they cause. It is not your fault."
3. "Why don't we call the hospital chaplain and you can pray about your sins."
4. "Smoking cigarettes isn't a sin. There are many worse habits you could have."
Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: If the nurse tells the client that it is too late to do anything about the problem, there is a possibility that distress will increase.
Rationale 2: This client is in distress and is seeking forgiveness. The nurse should offer this forgiveness and a reason the forgiveness is valid.
Rationale 3: Suggesting that the hospital chaplain be called for prayer reinforces that smoking cigarettes is a sin.
Rationale 4: This option minimizes the client's concerns and does not offer forgiveness.
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