Management of Care Q 19
A nurse is caring for an elderly Vietnamese patient in the terminal stages of lung cancer. Many family members are in the room around the clock performing unusual rituals and bringing ethnic foods. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A. Restrict visiting hours and ask the family to limit visitors to two at a time.
B. Notify visitors with a sign on the door that the patient is limited to clear fluids only with no solid food allowed.
C. If possible, keep the other bed in the room unassigned to provide privacy and comfort to the family.
D. Contact the physician to report the unusual rituals and activities.
Correct Answer: C. If possible, keep the other bed in the room unassigned to provide privacy and comfort to the family.
When a family member is dying, it is most helpful for nursing staff to provide a culturally sensitive environment to the degree possible within the hospital routine. In the Vietnamese culture, it is important that the dying be surrounded by loved ones and not left alone. Traditional rituals and foods are thought to ease the transition to the next life. When possible, allowing the family privacy for this traditional behavior is best for them and the patient.
Option A: Know the availability of support systems for the patient. If the patient’s main support is the object of perceived loss, the patient may need help in naming other sources of support. Communicate therapeutically with patient and family members and allow them to verbalize feelings.
Option B: Support the patient and significant others share mutual fears, concerns, plans, and hopes for each other. Keeping secrets won’t do any help during this time. These times of stress can be used as an opportunity for growth and family development.
Option D: Initiate a process that provides additional support and resources. The patient and family may benefit from spiritual support resources. Strengthen the patient’s efforts to go on with his or her life and normal routine. Allow the patient and family to feel that they are enabled to do this by supporting them.