How does the nurse know what to say to a client who is dying?
This is a common concern for nurses who are beginning to work with clients who are facing a terminal illness. The nurse may limit time spent with the client because of the nurse’s discomfort with communication needs of this client. The major need for this client is for human presence; just being with the client is of great help. The ability to listen is major skill for the nurse in this situation. The nurse who is aware of her feelings and takes deliberate action to focus on the needs of the client will be able to provide the comfort the client seeks at this time.