In providing care for a terminally ill resident of a long-term care facility, which action should the nurse take?

• A. Withhold information from family
• B. Limit visits to protect the patient
• C. Notify family members of the client's condition
• D. Encourage patient to handle dying alone

Answer: (C)

Open, honest communication with family about a terminally ill resident is essential to support informed decision-making, coordinate care, and provide emotional support, while honoring the patient’s wishes and maintaining confidentiality. Notifying family helps them understand prognosis, participate in goals of care, plan for comfort measures, and arrange visits or hospice resources as appropriate. This approach also identifies who should receive information based on the patient’s preferences or designated decision-makers, ensuring everyone is aligned with the patient’s wishes.

Choosing to withhold information can erode trust and deprive the family of the opportunity to support the patient or make informed choices. Limiting visits to “protect” the patient may inadvertently isolate them and overlook the important role family presence plays in end-of-life care. Encouraging the patient to handle dying alone disregards the psychosocial need for companionship and support during this time.