The caregiver of a patient with chronic illness experiences grief after the death of the patient. The caregiver recalls positive memories and the nurse notes that the caregiver is accepting the reality of the death. What type of grief is this?

• A. Adaptive grief
• B. Anticipatory grief
• C. Complicated grief
• D. Prolonged grief disorder

Answer: (A)

This question tests understanding of normal, adaptive grieving after a loss. When the caregiver is able to recall positive memories and appears to accept the reality of the death, it reflects healthy processing of the loss and an adjustment to life after bereavement. Adaptive grieving involves moving through the pain, remembering the person with warmth, and gradually reintegrating into daily life.

Anticipatory grief would occur before the death, as the illness progresses, not after the death. Complicated grief and prolonged grief disorder describe persistent, debilitating distress that markedly disrupts functioning for a long period; the scenario here shows acceptance and functional adaptation rather than ongoing impairment.