Question

A nurse is caring for a patient who is scheduled for cardiac surgery and tells the nurse, "I don't think I'm going to have the surgery. Everybody has to die sometime." Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?

a. "You shouldn't talk like that; the surgery will go well."
b. "It's natural to feel anxious before surgery. Let's talk about your concerns."
c. "You have a good chance of surviving the surgery, don't worry."
d. "The surgery is necessary for your health; you should proceed with it."

Answer 1

The nurse's appropriate response would be to acknowledge the patient's concerns and open up a dialogue to address their anxiety and fears. Correct option is B.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate response by the nurse in this situation is b. "It's natural to feel anxious before surgery. Let's talk about your concerns." This response acknowledges the patient's concerns and opens up a dialogue to address their anxiety and fears. It shows empathy and helps the patient feel heard and supported. It is important for the nurse to provide emotional support and reassurance, while respecting the patient's autonomy in making decisions about their own healthcare.