What is the correct sequence of stages of grief in the Kübler-Ross Model?

Appeared in: Haryana CHO - 2022

Explanation

The correct sequence of the Kübler-Ross stages of grief is Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance.
This model is commonly remembered by the acronym DABDA, which serves as a useful mnemonic.
Denial is the first stage, acting as a temporary defense mechanism against the initial shock of loss.
Anger follows as the individual recognizes denial cannot continue, leading to frustration and questioning 'Why me?'.
Acceptance is the final stage where the individual comes to terms with the reality of the loss, leading to a sense of peace.

Option A: This option incorrectly places Anger as the first stage. According to the Kübler-Ross model, Denial is the initial stage that helps individuals cope with the immediate shock of a loss.
Option C: This option incorrectly starts with Anger and further scrambles the order. The model's established first stage is Denial.
Option D: This option correctly starts with Denial but incorrectly places Depression immediately after, skipping Anger and Bargaining. The typical progression involves working through feelings of anger and attempts to bargain before sinking into depression.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Safe nursing care depends on performing Kübler-Ross model of the five stages of grief in the correct sequence, documenting the action clearly, and monitoring for the expected response.
Nurses use this framework to understand the emotional journey of patients and families facing terminal illness or significant loss, allowing for more empathetic and targeted psychosocial support.
By identifying a patient's current stage, a nurse can tailor communication; for example, by providing factual information to someone in denial or allowing a patient in the anger stage to express their feelings without judgment.
What if? A patient who seemed to have reached 'Acceptance' suddenly expresses intense anger again. The nurse should recognize this is a normal part of the grieving process, as the stages are not linear, and offer support for the feelings being expressed.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key concept of the question, which is the 'Kübler-Ross Model' and its 'stages of grief'.
This is a factual recall question. The most effective strategy is to use a mnemonic.
Recall the common acronym for these stages: DABDA.
Write out what DABDA stands for: D-Denial, A-Anger, B-Bargaining, D-Depression, A-Acceptance.
Compare this correct sequence to the options provided.
Only one option matches the DABDA sequence exactly.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QRZT76L9oH_tOqbIt8-VPL

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 949-951

E6 Psychology Applied Sreevani 5e p. 94-96

Practise the full Haryana CHO - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.