A nurse is caring for a hospitalized pre-operative client experiencing insomnia in the hospital at 3:00 am (0300).
Which nursing intervention is the most appropriate for this client?

This would help the client to feel valued, respected and involved in their own care, which can enhance their self-esteem.

Choice A is wrong because adding a nursing diagnosis of lowered self-esteem to the care plan does not address the underlying causes of the problem or provide any interventions to improve it.

It may also label the client and make them feel worse.

Choice B is wrong because giving praise for every decision the client makes is not realistic or sincere.

It may also undermine the client’s confidence and autonomy by implying that they need constant approval from others.

Choice D is wrong because modeling competent care for the client does not necessarily help them to maintain their self-esteem.

It may even make them feel inadequate or dependent on the nurse.

This is because helping the client to recognize and avoid situations that cause anxiety can reduce the frequency and severity of acute anxiety episodes. According to , a nurse should encourage the client to verbalize feelings and provide a calm and supportive environment.

Choice A is wrong because isolating the client when there are observable physiologic symptoms of anxiety can increase the client’s sense of fear and loneliness.

The nurse should stay with the client and offer reassurance and comfort.

Choice B is wrong because ignoring the client’s behavior as obvious attempts to gain attention can make the client feel rejected and misunderstood.

The nurse should acknowledge the client’s feelings and provide empathy and support.

Choice C is wrong because reducing all stress whenever the client seems anxious can prevent the client from learning coping skills and developing resilience.

The nurse should help the client to identify healthy ways of managing stress and anxiety.