NOTE:
These actions may be characterized by "Why me?" or "Why should this be
happening to me?" or "What did I do to deserve this punishment?"
NOTE:
The patient may attack the health care worker or his family physically or
verbally. Be aware of these negative feelings of the patient and do not take
them personally.
(2)
Health care provided by the medical specialist.
(a)
Have patience and tolerance.
(b)
Acknowledge to the patient that you understand how he feels.
(c)
Allow the patient to express anger and other feelings.
(d)
Respect the patient's need to rave against his fate. Do not take the
attack personally.
c. Bargaining.
(1) Patient reactions. This stage may be quite short, intermittent, or even not
apparent. The patient may:
(a) Bargain to postpone death, seek reward for good behavior, or
exchange places with someone else.
(b)
Replace the previous question of "Why me? to "Yes, it is me, but ...."
or "Why now?"
NOTE:
This stage may be done privately.
Health care provided by the medical specialist.
(2)
(a)
Understand that bargaining is helpful to the patient.
(b)
Keep the patient comfortable.
(c)
Listen and be available.
MD0549
6-4
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