A nurse is collecting data from a client whose partner died 1 year ago. Which of the following findings indicates that the client is experiencing complicated grief?
Explanation & Rationale
A. The client develops chest pain each time he talks about his partner is an indication of complicated grief. The client’s experience of intense, physical symptoms like chest pain when discussing their partner suggests that the grief process may not be progressing and could indicate unresolved or complicated grief. B. The client keeps a framed picture of his partner on the wall is a normal expression of grief. Keeping a picture of a lost loved one is common and doesn’t necessarily indicate complicated grief. It can be part of the natural grieving process. C. The client reports he has no interest in dating is not necessarily a sign of complicated grief. It's common for people grieving to not have an interest in dating or forming new romantic relationships immediately after the loss, but it does not suggest a problem unless the client expresses prolonged avoidance of all social interaction. D. The client attends a grief support group twice each month is a positive coping mechanism. Attending support groups shows the client is actively engaging with the grieving process and seeking support, which is part of healthy adjustment after a loss.