Question

The client, who is dying from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (aids), is admitted to the inpatient psychiatric unit because he attempted suicide. his close friend recently died from aids. the client states to the nurse, "what is the use of living? my time is running out." what is the nurse's best response?

Answer 1

The best response of the nurse is to instill positive thoughts to the patient as well as words of encouragement. While AIDS is not curable in any form or way, a person with AIDS can live a full life even with the disease. There are therapeutic options that slow the progression of AIDS, and there are ways to prevent contracting serious illnesses even in the event of immunodeficiency. The nurse should make the patient understand that there is life after AIDS.