Assessment of a Patient Nursing Practice Question
The nurse is caring for an older Orthodox Jewish client of the opposite sex whose condition is terminal. The nurse is implementing a plan of care and wishes to communicate this plan with the client and family. The nurse should be aware of what end-of-life spiritual and religious practices when planning and communicating with the client and family? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,B,D
Rationale: Outward expressions of anxiety are commonly seen among Orthodox Jewish members, especially older individuals. The Orthodox Jew strictly follows the laws of Judaism; however, during times of severe illness, Jewish laws are not observed if doing so will endanger the client's health. In the Orthodox Jewish faith, members generally will not shake hands or make direct eye contact with members of the opposite sex. During times of illness or death, the Orthodox Jewish community, including family and friends, will frequently visit and are considered the nucleus of the Jewish culture. Clients of the Orthodox Jewish faith are generally very verbal about what they are feeling, especially in the older population.