The nurse is caring for a patient 2 hours after a left above-the-knee amputation. The patient states, "My left leg is really hurting, and that medicine you gave me earlier didn't help." Which response is the most therapeutic, if made by the nurse?
A) "That's impossible!"
B) "You'll have to talk to your doctor."
C) "Keep your chin up."
D) "I will call your physician."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

"I will call your physician" is validating the patient's perception of pain. "That's impossible!" minimizes the patient's feelings. "You'll have to talk to your doctor" may cause the patient to feel rejected by the nurse. Making a stereotypical comment such as "Keep your chin up" is never therapeutic.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient 2 Hours After