Many patients with significant health issues are in denial. This is especially true of patients who receive a terminal diagnosis, As a nurse, you may be wondering how to handle the situation, as it can be difficult. It’s important to be a good listener. Listen to the patient’s concerns and be empathetic. Try to encourage them to talk with a loved one, or speak to the loved one yourself to share your observations. Patients who are in denial are scared and unsure of how to cope. Be as reassuring as you can be while avoiding giving false hope or making false promises. Try to be a positive voice for the patient to hear, despite the difficulties they face.
