Contemporary Issues in Nursing Related

Review Contemporary Issues in Nursing related questions and content

When working with the family of a patient receiving palliative care, what is the nurse's initial intervention?

  • A. Determining who will be the patient's durable power of attorney
  • B. Identifying what types of help the family will need to care for the patient
  • C. Completely an assessment of the family's strengths and weaknesses
  • D. Discuss the dynamics of the family with the patient
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct initial intervention for the nurse when working with the family of a patient receiving palliative care is to identify what types of help the family will need to care for the patient (Choice B). This is because understanding the family's needs and resources is essential for providing effective support. By identifying the specific types of assistance required, the nurse can tailor the care plan to meet the family's needs, enhancing the quality of care provided to the patient.

Determining the patient's durable power of attorney (Choice A) is important but usually comes later in the process after understanding the family's needs. Completing an assessment of the family's strengths and weaknesses (Choice C) is valuable but not the initial step. Discussing the dynamics of the family with the patient (Choice D) may be relevant but is not the priority when initiating support for the family.