A. Denial: Denial involves refusing to accept the reality of loss (e.g., “This can’t be happening”); the patient’s statement is more hostile than a refusal to accept reality. B. Bargaining: Bargaining is attempting to negotiate (often with a higher power) to delay the loss (e.g., “If you let me live I’ll…”); that doesn’t fit this statement. C. Anger: The patient’s “Leave me alone!” is hostile/irritable and directed at caregivers - a classic expression of anger in the grief process. D. Acceptance: Acceptance is calm acknowledgement and readiness to face the loss; the patient’s hostile rejection is not acceptance.