Question

Which findings will direct the nurse towards determination that a client is experiencing normal grief?

1. The client is experiencing Anhedonia.
2. The client states, "I have good and bad days."
3. The client smiles at the nurse while talking about her grandchild.
4. The client has a persistent state of dysphoria.
5. The client states, "I am having fewer crying spells."

Answer 1

To determine if a client is experiencing normal grief, the nurse would consider several findings such as the client's acknowledgement of good and bad days, (option 2) ability to find joy in certain moments, and a decrease in intense emotional outbursts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse would determine that a client is experiencing normal grief if they exhibit the following findings:

1. The client states, "I have good and bad days." This suggests that the client recognizes the fluctuating nature of grief and is able to acknowledge both positive and negative emotions.
2. The client smiles at the nurse while talking about her grandchild. This indicates that the client is still able to experience joy and find moments of happiness despite their grief.
3. The client states, "I am having fewer crying spells." This suggests that the client is gradually experiencing fewer intense emotional outbursts, which can be a sign of progression in the grieving process.

On the other hand, findings such as experiencing Anhedonia (the inability to experience pleasure), persistent dysphoria (a general feeling of dissatisfaction and sadness), and a persistent state of grief would not be indicative of normal grief.