Question

As death approaches, a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) says, I don't want to see a lot of visitors anymore. Just my parents and my sibling can come in for a while each day. What action should the nurse take?

a. Ask the patient to reconsider the decision because many interested and caring friends can be sources of support.
b. Discuss the request with the parents and sibling. Suggest that they explain the patient's decision to friends.
c. Suggest that the patient discuss these wishes with the health care provider.
d. Place a no visitors sign on the patient's door.

Answer 1

The nurse should respect the wishes of the AIDS patient by discussing the limited visitation request with the patient's parents and sibling, allowing family to inform friends and ensuring the patient's agency and privacy are upheld.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) expresses a wish to limit visitations to only close family, it is important to respect their autonomy and privacy. The correct action for the nurse to take is: b. Discuss the request with the parents and sibling. Suggest that they explain the patient's decision to friends. This action honors the patient's agency and confidentiality during a particularly vulnerable time. It also provides an opportunity for the loved ones to support the patient's wishes and act as intermediaries to inform friends of these wishes in a sensitive manner.

Given the severe damage to the immune system in AIDS, especially when the CD4 T-cell count drops significantly, it is crucial that patients' rights and psychological well-being are prioritized. It is also essential to recognize that during this terminal stage, the patient may wish to have a more intimate setting with their most immediate support system due to the complexity and severity of their condition, including the potential for opportunistic infections and other health complications.