The patient has been unconscious for 36 hours after a massive stroke. The nurse enters the room to see the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) cleaning the patient after an episode of fecal incontinence. The UAP states, “I can’t imagine not even being able to clean myself. What a sad existence.” Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

The patient has been unconscious for 36 hours after a massive stroke. The nurse enters the room to see the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) cleaning the patient after an episode of fecal incontinence. The UAP states, &ldquo;I can&rsquo;t imagine not even being able to clean myself. What a sad existence.&rdquo; Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

State, “Yes, it is unfortunate that our patient had a stroke. However, he deserves dignity during this time.”. Although the patient is unconscious, it should be assumed that the patient can hear what is said in the room. Therefore, the nurse should acknowledge the patient&rsquo;s suffering and remind the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) of the importance of dignity during this time. Although the nurse should certainly help the UAP to clean the patient, simply agreeing with the UAP does not address the need to speak as though the patient can hear what is said in the room. If addressing the matter in the moment is unsuccessful, it may be necessary to pull the UAP aside outside the room for feedback or discuss the matter with the UAP&rsquo;s direct supervisor.

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