Computed Tomography of a 72-Year-Old Woman Reveals Lung Cancer with Metastasis

Multiple Choice

Computed tomography of a 72-year-old woman reveals lung cancer with metastasis to the liver. The patients son has been adamant that any bad news be withheld from his in order to protect her from stress, stating that this is a priority in his culture. How should the nurse and the other members of the care team best respond?

A) Explain to the son the teams ethical obligation to inform the patient.
B) Refer the family to social work.
C) Have a nurse or physician from the patients culture make contact with her and her son.
D) Speak with the son to explore his rationale and attempt to reach a consensus.