Choose the correct answer(s). In some questions, more than one answer is correct. Select all that apply. As you are walking down the hall, you pass the door of a room in which there is a woman who is dying of advanced cancer and is nonresponsive. You overhear two women in the room apparently arguing about who should inherit their mother's wedding ring. Based on the fact that hearing is thought to be the last sense to go before an individual dies, you go back and knock on the door of the room where the two women are having the heated discussion. On entering the room, which of the following actions would be the most appropriate?
- A. In a firm voice, tell the two women that hearing is the last sense to go and that they should be ashamed of themselves for discussing this issue in front of their mother.
- B. Ask the women if they need anything.
- C. Assess the patient's comfort and straighten her linens. Then ask the two women if you might speak to them privately.
- D. Enter the room and tell the women that even though visiting hours are not over, that they should leave to allow the patient to rest.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Since hearing may persist, sensitive discussions should be avoided near the patient. Assessing the patientâ??s comfort and speaking privately with the women (C) respects the patientâ??s dignity and addresses the issue tactfully. Scolding (A) is unprofessional, offering help (B) ignores the issue, and asking them to leave (D) is inappropriate unless disruptive.