A nurse is caring for a client who has terminal cancer and is receiving palliative care. Which of the following statements indicates that the client is demonstrating effective coping?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "I still believe my cancer will go into remission.": Denial of the terminal prognosis may indicate ineffective coping, as the client is not fully accepting the reality of their condition and may delay necessary end-of-life planning. B. "I hope to have surgery to cure my cancer.": Hoping for a curative treatment when the disease is terminal reflects unrealistic expectations and may suggest difficulty accepting the prognosis. This statement does not demonstrate effective coping. C. "I need to return to work as soon as my treatment is complete.": Focusing on returning to work implies denial of disease progression and potential limitations, which can interfere with emotional preparation and adaptation to terminal illness. D. "I should start making my funeral arrangements.": Planning for end-of-life events reflects acceptance of the terminal diagnosis and proactive engagement in advance care planning. This demonstrates realistic coping and psychological preparation for death.