The nurse is caring for a child who is dying. The parent asks that the child not be told he is dying. The child asks the nurse if he is dying. Which of the following would be the most appropriate action by the nurse at this time?
1. Ignore the child's question and change the subject.
2. Offer to bring in the child life therapist.
3. Suggest the parents meet with the health care team.
4. Tell the child he is dying and offer to stay with him.
3
Rationale 1: Changing the subject or ignoring the child is not appropriate.
Rationale 2: This is an avoidance technique. Avoiding the subject is not an option.
Rationale 3: Offering to set up a meeting with the health care team to discuss the parents' fears and concerns about telling their child the truth is the best action by the nurse.
Rationale 4: This is going against the parents' wishes.
Global Rationale:
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