Nurse in Psychiatry Test Bank Related

Review Nurse in Psychiatry Test Bank related questions and content

An outcome for a patient experiencing anticipatory grieving for a spouse diagnosed with terminal cancer would be that the patient will:

  • A. Continue to be emotionally involved with the dying spouse
  • B. Develop protective mental mechanisms to allay the pain of spousal loss
  • C. Not voice threats of physical violence that is either self or others directed
  • D. Agree to stay at home and care for the spouse with appropriate assistance
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because anticipatory grieving involves emotional involvement with the dying spouse. This allows the patient to process emotions, express love, and make meaningful connections before the actual loss. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests avoidance of pain through mental mechanisms, which is not conducive to healthy grieving. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on a specific behavior (violence) rather than the emotional process of grieving. Choice D is incorrect as it assumes the patient's agreement to care for the spouse is the primary outcome, overlooking the emotional aspect of anticipatory grief.