Your Patient's Spouse Died Recently from a Sudden Illness After

Multiple Choice

Your patient's spouse died recently from a sudden illness after 45 years of marriage.The patient was the primary caregiver for the spouse during this time.The patient is now depressed and withdrawn and has verbalized feelings of uselessness.Which action by the nurse is best?

A) Encourage the patient take up a hobby that will occupy some time.
B) Explain that volunteering would be an excellent way to stay useful.
C) Assure the patient that these feelings of sadness will pass with time.
D) Ask the patient to share some cherished memories of the spouse.