A nurse is caring for a client following major spinal surgery who is reporting pain. The client's partner tells the nurse, "I wish I could do something to make my wife feel better." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Moderate. According to the Mayo Clinic moderate anxiety is characterized by symptoms such as loud and rapid speech, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and increased worry. The client's behavior matches these symptoms, indicating that they are experiencing moderate anxiety.

Choice B. Panic is incorrect because panic is a severe form of anxiety that involves symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, trembling, and a sense of impending doom. The client does not exhibit these symptoms.

Choice C. Severe is incorrect because severe anxiety is marked by symptoms such as irrational fear, detachment from reality, hallucinations, and loss of control¹². The client does not show these symptoms.

Choice D. Mild is incorrect because mild anxiety is associated with symptoms such as nervousness, increased alertness, and slight discomfort¹². The client's symptoms are more intense than mild anxiety.

Answer: A

Rationale:

A) "It must be very difficult for you to see your wife in pain.": This response acknowledges the partner's feelings and provides emotional support. It shows empathy and validates the partner's experience, helping to build rapport and trust between the nurse and the family member.

B) "I wish there was more that I could do to relieve your wife's pain, too.": While this response expresses sympathy, it might unintentionally convey a sense of helplessness or inadequacy on the part of the nurse, which could increase the partner's anxiety or frustration.

C) "I'm sure your wife will begin to feel better soon.": This response is intended to be reassuring, but it can come off as dismissive of the partner's current concern and may not address their immediate emotional needs. It also makes a promise that the nurse cannot guarantee.

D) "We're doing everything we can to keep your wife comfortable.": This response provides factual information about the care being provided, but it does not address the partner's emotional distress. It focuses on the actions of the healthcare team rather than acknowledging the partner's feelings.