The nurse is assessing a patient who was reported to have an altered level of consciousness. The patient presents with rapid speech, impaired judgement, and rapidly fluctuating emotional state. After admission and treatment, the patient returns to a functional baseline. Which diagnosis best describes the patient’s behavior?

The nurse caring for a dying patient of the Buddhist faith approaches the charge nurse in distress to state, “My patient is going to die at any time and the family is nowhere near him. I’m not sure what to do to ensure he is not alone as he passes.” Which response by the charge nurse is most appropriate?

While completing a patient’s history, the patient states: “I just don’t like the life I am living. I wish it were over.” Which is the most appropriate response from the nurse?