Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Chronic Illness and Disability Related

Review Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Chronic Illness and Disability related questions and content

A patient who has recently been diagnosed with chronic heart failure is being taught by the nurse how to live successfully with her chronic condition. Her ability to meet this goal will primarily depend on her ability to do which of the following?

  • A. Lower her expectations for quality of life and level of function.
  • B. Access community services to eventually cure her disease.
  • C. Adapt her lifestyle to accommodate her symptoms.
  • D. Establish good rapport with her primary care provider.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Successful management of chronic conditions depends largely on the patients ability to adapt in order to accommodate symptoms. However, telling the patient to lower her expectations is a simplistic and negative interpretation of this reality. Rapport is beneficial, but not paramount. A cure is not normally an option.