A patient scheduled for surgery has a severe level of anxiety. Which action, if taken by the nurse, would be most appropriate at this time?
A) Providing teaching about the upcoming surgery and what to expect
B) Telling the patient that there is nothing to worry about
C) Calling the patient's family and demanding that they help out
D) Asking the patient about her concerns, feelings, and perceptions about the surgery

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most appropriate action for the nurse to take at this time is to ask the patient about her concerns, feelings, and perceptions about the surgery. Providing teaching during periods of high anxiety is ineffective and does not address the patient's anxiety. Telling the patient that there is nothing to worry about is giving false reassurance. Calling the patient's family and demanding that they help out is projecting the nurse's frustration onto the family and avoiding responsibility.

A Patient Scheduled for Surgery Has a Severe Level of Anxiety