Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Interaction of Body and Mind Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Interaction of Body and Mind related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a client who has recently lost a spouse. Which question asked by the nurse is essential in guarding the client's immune system?

  • A. Do you have friends and family to support you?
  • B. Do you live alone in a one-story house?
  • C. Are you able to prepare nutritious meals?
  • D. Are your neighbors able to check on you?
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When a client has very intense stress, such as the loss of a spouse, stress can lower the number of white blood cells impacting the immune system. There is also a connection between poorer immune function and loneliness. Asking the client about friends and family who are available to provide support is most helpful. Friends and family allow the client to share emotions and immune function improves. The other questions provide helpful data but not as pertinent to the immune system.