Question

A nurse talks with a person whose spouse died while jogging. Which is the appropriate statement for the nurse?

a. At least your spouse did not suffer.
b. It's better to go quickly as your spouse did.
c. The loss of your spouse must be very painful for you.
d. You'll begin to feel better after you get over the shock.

Answer 1

The nurse should opt for an empathetic response that acknowledges the individual's pain without making potentially insensitive assumptions. "The loss of your spouse must be very painful for you" is the most suitable statement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate statement for the nurse to make to a person whose spouse died while jogging is "The loss of your spouse must be very painful for you." This is an empathetic response that acknowledges the individual's pain and allows them the space to express their emotions without making assumptions or providing platitudes that may seem insensitive under the circumstances. Such an approach helps in establishing a compassionate connection with the grieving person, which is a key part of the emotional support provided by healthcare professionals.