A patient being seen for the first time in the perinatal clinic has multiple complaints,such as fatigue,anger outbursts,chronic pelvic pain,and feelings of anxiety.What action by the nurse is best?

Question

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Women who have been victims of sexual assault often complain of various emotional difficulties,such as depression,anger,anxiety,and gynecologic problems.They are often reluctant to disclose their past history of abuse.When women have these complaints,the nurse should investigate the possibility of sexual assault.Documentation should be thorough; however,this answer is not complete.The patient may or may not need a referral; the nurse needs to assess the patient further.Reviewing past medical history is an important part of assessing a patient,but does not take into account the unique nature of this problem.

A Patient Being Seen for the First Time in the Perinatal