The nurse is caring for an older adult patient who has no apparent family. When questioned about family and the definition of family, the patient states, "I have no family. They're all gone." When asked, "Who prepares your meals?" the patient states, "I do, or I go out." Which approach should the nurse use for this patient?

A) Family as context
B) Family as patient
C) Family as system
D) Family as caregiver

If only one family member receives nursing care, it is realistic and practical to use the approach "family as context." Although family nursing is based on the assumption that all people regardless of age are a member of some type of family form, the patient insists that there is no family. The nurse should investigate further. However, at this time, family as patient or as system is not appropriate. Family as caregiver is not an approach but rather is a term to describe a family member caring for another family member.