The nurse provides care for a patient who experienced an extensive myocardial infarction (MI). The patient exhibits behavior characteristic of the denial stage of the grieving process. How should the nurse approach the patient's denial?

Question

A) Reinforce and support the patient's denial.
B) Let the patient know that the nurse is available to talk.
C) Point out other patients with MIs who are doing well.
D) Explain to the patient that he needs to accept his diagnosis.

Answer 1

Ans: B
Feedback: Letting the patient know that the nurse is available to talk acknowledges the patient's feelings. It may help the patient cope until he's ready to move on to the next stage of the grieving process. Pointing out other patients with MI who are doing well offers false reassurance to this patient and disregards his feelings. The patient shouldn't be forced to face reality. Denial is a protective mechanism that enables the patient to cope with crisis until he can use more effective coping behaviors.