The patient had a colostomy placed 1 week ago. When approached by the nurse, the patient and spouse refuse to talk about it and refuse to be taught about how to care for it. How will the nurse evaluate this couple's stage of adjustment?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As the patient and family recognize the reality of a change, they become anxious and may withdraw, refusing to discuss it. This is an adaptive coping mechanism that assists the patient in making the adjustment. Initially, the patient may be shocked by the change. This is followed by withdrawal, acknowledgment, acceptance, and rehabilitation (ready to adapt to the change through use of colostomy bag).

The Patient Had a Colostomy Placed 1 Week Ago