A patient sustained a long laceration across the cheek. During a dressing change the patient says, "I just cannot look at the incision yet. I am pretty vain about my looks." Which nursing diagnosis would the nurse prioritize?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's statement about being "pretty vain about my looks" indicates a potential disturbance in body image. While anxiety and ineffective coping may be present, the patient's expressed concern about appearance suggests that addressing body image should be prioritized. Denial may also be a factor, but it is not as applicable in this scenario as disturbed body image.

A Patient Sustained a Long Laceration Across the Cheek