CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsHard

A family member of a dying resident becomes angry and yells at the nurse aide, blaming the staff for the resident's declining condition. According to the Kübler-Ross stages of grief, this behavior most likely reflects which stage?

  1. AAnger
  2. BBargaining
  3. CDenial
  4. DAcceptance
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. Anger

The Kübler-Ross model describes anger as a stage of grief in which individuals express frustration, often directed at caregivers or others, as a response to loss. The nurse aide should remain calm and not take the anger personally.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Bargaining involves attempts to negotiate or make deals to change the outcome.
  • C. Denial involves refusing to accept the reality of the situation, not outward blame.
  • D. Acceptance involves coming to terms with the loss, not expressing anger.

Kübler-Ross Stages of Grief

A model describing five stages people may experience when facing death or loss: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

  • Stages do not always occur in order and may repeat
  • Anger is often directed at caregivers, self, or a higher power
  • Nurse aides should respond calmly and non-defensively

Memory trick: DABDA: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance.

More Communication and Psychosocial Needs questions