A few days after experiencing a myocardial infarction (MI)and successful percutaneous coronary intervention,the patient states,"It was just a little chest pain. As soon as I get out of here,I'm going for my vacation as planned." Which reply would be most appropriate for the nurse to make?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the patient is experiencing denial,the nurse should assist the patient in testing reality until the patient has progressed beyond this step of the emotional adjustment to MI. Asking the patient about vacation plans reinforces the patient's plan,which is not appropriate in the immediate post-MI period. Reminding the patient in denial about the MI is likely to make the patient angry and lead to distrust of the nursing staff.

A Few Days After Experiencing a Myocardial Infarction (MI)and Successful