An older client has just relocated from home to an assisted living facility. The nurse is concerned because the client has been withdrawn and is crying periodically throughout the day. What type of loss is this client demonstrating?

Question

1. External objects
2. Familiar environment
3. Loved ones
4. Psychological

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Loss of external objects includes the loss of inanimate objects that have importance to the person. The client might be experiencing this type of loss; however, there is not enough information to determine whether personal belongings were not also relocated to the assisted living facility with the client.
Rationale 2: Separation from an environment and people who provide security can result in a sense of loss, such as in the client who has relocated from home to an assisted living facility.
Rationale 3: The client was relocated to an assisted living facility. There is no information to suggest that the client is experiencing a loss of a loved one.
Rationale 4: Psychological losses are often perceived losses in that they are not directly verified, such as with the loss of independence or freedom. The client who has moved from home to an assisted living facility might have this type of loss; however, it is not the primary loss in this case.