Question

A nurse who provides bereavement counseling is working with the family of a child who recently died from cancer. Which of the following statements may be a common expression of grief and guilt a by family member?

a) Uncle: "It was for the best."
b) 65-year-old grandparent: "It helped me prepare for my death."
c) Parents: "We did everything we could and we are at peace."
d) Sister: "It is all my fault; I wanted him to die."

Answer 1

Among the statements provided by a family member after a child's death from cancer, the sister expressing guilt by saying, "It is all my fault; I wanted him to die," is a common expression of grief and guilt. The correct answer is d) Sister: "It is all my fault; I wanted him to die."

Step-by-step explanation:

A common expression of grief and guilt by a family member after the loss of a child to cancer could be reflected in feelings of personal responsibility for the death, even if these feelings are not based in reality. Among the statements provided, the one that represents this expression of grief and guilt is: d) Sister: "It is all my fault; I wanted him to die."

This remark indicates an emotional reaction characterized by irrational guilt, which is often experienced by those who are grieving. It may be part of the normal grieving process, but it can also signal a need for additional support from a nurse specializing in bereavement counseling. When dealing with loss, people can go through various stages as defined by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross's five stages of grief, which include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Responses to grief are unique, and not everyone will experience all stages or follow the same order. So, the correct answer is d) Sister: "It is all my fault; I wanted him to die."