Final answer:
The nurse is using Silence as a form of therapeutic communication by allowing the patient time to process their terminal illness diagnosis. E. Silence can help individuals in such challenging moments as it shows support without forcing dialogue. The discussion also covers hospice care as an option that focuses on comfort and peace during the end-of-life transition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of therapeutic communication being used in the scenario where the nurse allows the patient to gather his thoughts after expressing disbelief about a terminal illness diagnosis is D. Silence. Utilizing silence as a form of therapeutic communication can give patients a moment to process their thoughts and emotions, which can be particularly beneficial during a distressing time such as receiving a terminal diagnosis. The nurse's action demonstrates respect for the patient's need to process the information at their own pace and indicates a supportive presence without the pressure to fill the silence with words.
When faced with a terminal illness, the process of acceptance described by Elizabeth Kübler-Ross includes the stages of denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, though these stages are not experienced by everyone and can occur in various orders. Some individuals may also remain in a particular stage, such as denial, especially if they struggle too hard against the reality of death.
When considering end-of-life care options such as hospice care or traditional hospital care, one may choose hospice for its emphasis on comfort and peace during the final moments of life. Hospice care provides specialized support and encourages at-home care, helping individuals to pass in a comfortable and familiar environment. This approach reflects a shift in societal views towards a more compassionate and personal experience at the end of life.