Nokea
A hospice nurse who has become close to a terminally ill patient is present in the home when the patient dies and feels saddened and tearful as the family members begin to cry. Which action should the nurse take at this time?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cry along with the patient’s family members. This action demonstrates empathy and support for the family's grief, showing that the nurse acknowledges and shares their feelings. It can help the family feel understood and supported during a difficult time. By crying with the family, the nurse can validate their emotions and provide comfort without intruding on their personal space. This approach fosters a sense of connection and trust between the nurse and the family, enhancing the quality of care provided.
Incorrect Choices:
A: Contact a grief counselor as soon as possible - This choice may be premature and could come across as impersonal or distancing in the immediate aftermath of the patient’s death.
C: Leave the home as soon as possible - This choice would be insensitive and could make the family feel abandoned in their time of need.
D: Consider whether working in hospice is desirable because patient losses are common - This choice is inappropriate as it suggests the nurse should reconsider their career choice based on emotional reactions,