The Nurse Is Providing Emotional Support to the Spouse of a Patient

question 4

Multiple Choice

The nurse is providing emotional support to the spouse of a patient recently diagnosed with terminal esophageal cancer. The spouse voices feelings of anger and confusion and questions why his partner did not seek help sooner. Which response by the nurse would be the most appropriate at this time?

• A)"Unfortunately, the early symptoms are often vague, and often not recognized as something serious."
• B)"Your spouse was probably afraid of getting bad news."
• C)"You will never know."
• D)"It is not important to know that right now."

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Definitions:

Central Nervous System

The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord, which integrates information and coordinates the activities of all parts of the body.

Endorphin Agonist

A substance that mimics the action of endorphins, neurotransmitters in the brain that reduce pain and elicit feelings of pleasure.

Morphine

Morphine is a potent opiate analgesic medication derived from the poppy plant used to relieve severe pain.

Cerebrospinal Fluid

A clear, colorless body fluid found in the brain and spinal cord that acts as a cushion for the brain's cortex, providing basic mechanical and immunological protection to the brain inside the skull.