A nurse is collecting data from a middle-aged client whose partner died seven months ago.
Which of the following findings indicate that the client is experiencing maladaptive grieving?
A.
The client has lost 10 lb.
B.
The client visits his partner’s grave each month.
C.
The client has been unable to return to work.
D.
The client has difficulty sleeping
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. The client has been unable to return to work.
Explanation:
Grieving is a natural response to loss, and it often involves a range of emotional and physical reactions. However, the grieving process can become maladaptive if the symptoms and behaviors significantly impair an individual’s ability to function in daily life.
A. The client has lost 10 lb.
Weight loss can occur during the grieving process due to decreased appetite or increased stress. While notable, this finding alone does not necessarily indicate maladaptive grieving unless it is accompanied by other signs of dysfunction. Weight changes are common in bereavement but should be assessed in the context of overall functioning.
B. The client visits his partner’s grave each month
Regular visits to the grave of a loved one can be a normal part of the grieving process, serving as a way to honor and remember the deceased. This behavior does not in itself indicate maladaptive grieving unless it becomes obsessive or interferes with daily activities.
C. The client has been unable to return to work
Inability to return to work can be a sign of maladaptive grieving, particularly if it persists beyond the typical mourning period. Maladaptive grieving might involve prolonged dysfunction that disrupts a person’s ability to resume normal life activities, including work. This can signal that the individual is struggling to cope effectively with the loss, leading to significant impairment in their daily functioning.
D. The client has difficulty sleeping
Sleep disturbances are a common response to grief and do not necessarily indicate maladaptive grieving on their own. Sleep problems can be part of the normal grieving process, though if they are severe and persistent, they may warrant further evaluation.
In summary, the inability to return to work, as described in option C, suggests a more profound level of disruption and dysfunction, which is a key indicator of maladaptive grieving. It implies that the client’s grief is affecting their capacity to perform essential life roles, which is a critical concern in the context of grief management and mental health.