Exam 27: Assessing the Dying Patient

The nurse is providing care to a patient who has just been told about a terminal illness. The patient states, "I don't believe that doctor. I am going to get a second opinion." Which stage of the grieving process is the patient exhibiting?

The nurse is providing care to an African American patient who is near death. Which family responses to death does the nurse anticipate based on culture?

The home hospice nurse is conducting a review of systems during the health history interview. Which assessment question will allow the nurse to plan for the delivery of necessary supplies?

The nurse is providing care to a terminal patient who is experiencing pain. The patient is unable to take oral medication. Which routes does the nurse prepare to administer pain medications to this patient? Select all that apply.

When conducting a review of systems as part of the health history interview, the nurse notes that the patient is immobile. Which question is the priority when planning hospital care to reduce the risk of impaired skin integrity?

The nurse is assessing a terminal patient who is near death for mottling. Which locations will the nurse inspect for this clinical manifestation early in the dying process? Select all that apply.

The nurse knocks on the door of a terminal patient's room to conduct a shift assessment. When the nurse enters, the patient's daughter yells, "Just get out of here. I don't have much time left with her. Leave us alone!" Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

The nurse is providing care to a patient who is terminally ill with lung cancer. During the administration of the prescribed chemotherapy the patient states, "I am ok with this diagnosis as long as I get to see my daughter graduate from college at the end of the month." Based on this data, which coping mechanism is the patient using?

The nurse is providing care to a patient with terminal cancer. The patient prefers to be alone and asks, "What's the use of living?" Based on this data, which coping mechanism is the patient exhibiting?

During a hospice home care visit the caregiver states, "My mom has stopped eating. Should we consider tube feedings?" Based on this conversation with the caregiver, which response by the nurse is appropriate?

The nurse is providing home hospice care to a terminal patient. The caregiver states, "My dad has not had a bowel movement in several days. Can you call the doctor for a stool softener?" Which response by the nurse is appropriate?

The nurse is conducting an admission assessment for a terminal patient. The patient's caregiver is assisting with the health history. Which question asked during the family history should the nurse direct at the caregiver?

The nurse assesses a dying patient and documents terminal restlessness. Which clinical manifestations did the nurse observe? Select all that apply.

Which statement best describes the timing of death?

The nurse is providing care to a patient who is diagnosed with terminal liver cancer. The patient does not talk much but has asked family members to hold her hand when visiting. Which stage of Kubler-Ross' grieving process is the patient experiencing?

The nurse is providing care to a patient who has just learned of a terminal illness. Which resource is most appropriate for the nurse to use in this situation?

Which healthcare provider typically initiates a do-not-resuscitate discussion with a patient who is terminally ill?