A nurse is caring for a client who is about to undergo open-heart surgery. The client states that he is very nervous about the surgery. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
Give the client some reading material about their upcoming surgery to help ease their mind.
Suggest that the client take a walk around the unit.
Refer the client to the pastoral care team.
Speak with the client and ask him to describe what they are feeling.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Providing reading material about the surgery can be informative, but it may not be the best approach for someone who is already very nervous. It could potentially increase anxiety if the information is overwhelming or if the client misinterprets the material.
Choice B reason:
Suggesting a walk could serve as a distraction and help to calm the client's nerves. However, it might not address the underlying anxiety about the surgery itself. It's a temporary measure that doesn't offer emotional support or address the client's immediate concerns.
Choice C reason:
Referring the client to the pastoral care team could be beneficial if the client is seeking spiritual support or comfort. However, this should be based on the client's personal preferences and beliefs, and it may not be the most direct way to address the client's stated nervousness.
Choice D reason:
Engaging the client in a conversation about their feelings provides an opportunity for emotional support and can help the nurse understand the client's specific fears. This approach can lead to a more personalized care plan to alleviate anxiety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While interviewing is a component of the nursing process, specifically during the assessment phase, describing the nursing process solely as a method for interviewing is incomplete. The nursing process encompasses much more, including diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Choice B Reason:
This statement accurately reflects the purpose of the nursing process. It is a systematic method used by nurses to assist clients in adapting to stressors, whether they are physical, psychological, or social. The process involves assessing the client's needs, diagnosing issues, planning and implementing interventions, and evaluating the outcomes.
Choice C Reason:
The nursing process does play a role in minimizing allegations of negligence by providing a structured approach to care, but this is not its primary purpose. The main goal is to deliver individualized and effective care to clients, not just to protect against legal issues.
Choice D Reason:
Supporting a psychiatric diagnosis is part of the nursing process, but the statement is too narrow to describe the overall purpose. The nursing process is used to plan and provide personalized care, which goes beyond just supporting a diagnosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While suggesting the client discuss their concerns with their physician is a valid response, it may not provide the immediate emotional support the client is seeking. It's important for the nurse to address the client's current anxiety and provide reassurance before referring them to their physician.
Choice B Reason:
This response dismisses the client's fears and may come across as insensitive. It's crucial to acknowledge the client's emotions and provide a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood.
Choice C Reason:
Encouraging the client to express their fears allows the nurse to provide emotional support and helps in understanding the client's perspective. This approach fosters a therapeutic relationship and can help alleviate the client's anxiety.
Choice D Reason:
While recommending lifestyle changes is beneficial for overall health, this response does not address the client's immediate emotional needs. The nurse should first provide support for the client's expressed fears before discussing lifestyle modifications.

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