CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsMedium
A family member of a dying resident says, 'If God lets my mother live to see her granddaughter's wedding, I promise to go to church every week.' This statement reflects which stage of grief?
- ADenial
- BAnger
- CAcceptance
- DBargaining
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Bargaining
Bargaining involves attempting to negotiate, often with a higher power, to delay or change the outcome of a loss. This is distinct from denial (refusing to believe it), anger (blaming others), or acceptance (coming to terms with the loss).
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Denial involves refusal to accept the situation, not negotiation.
- B. Anger involves blame or frustration, not bargaining offers.
- C. Acceptance reflects peace with the outcome, not attempts to change it.
Bargaining Stage of Grief
A stage of the Kübler-Ross grief model in which a person tries to negotiate or make deals to prevent or delay loss.
- Often involves promises to a higher power
- Common phrase pattern: 'If only...' or 'I promise...'
- One of five Kübler-Ross stages
Memory trick: Bargaining = 'Let's make a deal.'