The nurse is caring for a patient who has been sullen and quiet for the past three days. Suddenly, the patient says, "I'm really nervous about surgery tomorrow, but I'm more worried about how it will affect my family." What should the nurse do $first\bold{first}$ ?

A) Assure the patient that everything will be all right.
B) Tell the patient that there is no need to worry.
C) Listen to the patient's concerns and fears.
D) Inform the patient a social worker is available.

Question

The nurse is caring for a patient who has been sullen and quiet for the past three days. Suddenly, the patient says, "I'm really nervous about surgery tomorrow, but I'm more worried about how it will affect my family." What should the nurse do

first\bold{first}

?

A) Assure the patient that everything will be all right.
B) Tell the patient that there is no need to worry.
C) Listen to the patient's concerns and fears.
D) Inform the patient a social worker is available.

Haven Sutton · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  Listening to the meaning of what a patient says helps create a mutual relationship. Assuring and telling a patient not to worry are not truly listening; these do not convey listening. Although contacting a social worker could be an appropriate measure for this patient, the nurse should first listen to what the patient is saying.

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