Loss and Grief

A nurse recognizes anticipatory grief in the person who

• has an active period of mourning that does not decrease and continues over time

• has few coping mechanisms and feels overwhelmed with resulting substance abuse

• is encouraging development of SMART goals

• accepts the reality of a terminal diagnosis and begins to say goodbye and complete life affairs before death occurs

A patient is the LTCF is to receive palliative care measures. The nurse anticipates that this will include:

• pain relief measures

• emergency surgery as needed

• pulmonary resuscitation

• transfer to ICU as needed

Which of the following is an example of situational loss?

• elderly parent requires physical assistance

• family friend dies

• child goes to college

• job demotion and subsequent pay reduction

A patient who has a life-limiting chronic illness wants to be as live as normally as possible. Which response shows empathy?

• "Learning to accept there are some things you just can't do will bring you more acceptance."

• "Your friends and family want to help you. Why don't you ask for help?"

• "Which activities are most important to you and how can you continue to do them?"

• "Spending more time doing quiet activities will help you feel better and less tired."

Which concrete steps can the nurse take to support a family who has just suffered a loss of a loved one? Select all that apply.

• Provide education for the family

• Honor culture and tradition

• Actively listen

• Let them know the priest is on his way

• Establish goals to get them through the acceptance stage