News about impending death can be shocking even to the strongest patients. Therefore, revealing a terminal illness diagnosis to the patient can be challenging for the nurse, particularly considering the reaction the patient can give. However, as a nurse, I would reveal a terminal illness diagnosis to the patient early enough and by considering the patient’s situation or health condition.
According to Kübler-Ross (2011), revealing a terminal illness diagnosis early enough might not be as traumatizing as waiting to reveal it when the patient has fewer days to live. When the diagnosis is revealed when the patient has more time to live, he or she might be assured of engaging in some activities or talking to family members and friends before dying. Usually, some patients have some wishes they might want fulfilled before dying, and therefore, receiving the news early enough gives them time to reflect on their lives than telling them abruptly.
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I will reveal the diagnosis only when I am certain the patient is in good condition to receive the news. I might need to build a positive relationship and good rapport with the patient to set them in the right mood to receive the news. The message will need to be delivered calmly and in an understanding way. If the patient breaks down, I’ll need to give him or her time to cool down, but be available for support.
In conclusion, however painful the news about a terminal illness diagnosis might be, the patient needs to be aware about the condition. The patient needs to be aware of their condition early enough, and should also be in good condition to bear the news. In these ways, the patient will have enough time to reflect and accomplish some of their wishes before they die.
Reference
Kübler-Ross, E. (2011). On death and dying. What the dying have to teach doctors, nurses, clergy and their own families. Scribner.
