A Newborn in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)is Dying

question 4

Multiple Choice

A newborn in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is dying of a massive infection.The parents speak to the neonatologist,who informs them of their son's prognosis.When the father sees his son,he says,"He looks just fine to me.I can't understand what all this is about." What is the most appropriate response or reaction by the nurse at this time?

• A) "Didn't the physician tell you about your son's problems?"
• B) "This must be a difficult time for you.Tell me how you're doing."
• C) Quietly stand beside the infant's father.
• D) "You'll have to face up to the fact that he is going to die sooner or later."

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Definitions:

Passive Resignation

A state of accepting or submitting without resistance, often characterized by lack of action or initiative.

Personal Control

The degree to which an individual believes they can influence their environment and the outcomes of events in their life.

Passive Resignation

An attitude of helplessness in which individuals give up trying to cope with threats or to achieve goals because they believe that no action of theirs can be fruitful.

Social Pecking Order

The hierarchical system of social organization within a group, in which individuals are ranked in terms of dominance and subordination.