A nurse who is performing a preoperative assessment finds that the patient responds to questions by stuttering and speaking in a soft voice. The most likely nursing diagnosis for this patient would be:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient admitted for surgery who is stuttering and speaking with a soft voice during the assessment would most likely be diagnosed with impaired verbal communication related to fear of the surgery. Stuttering and speaking softly indicate that the patient is having difficulties communicating and may be shy, nervous, or have a speech impediment. The nurse should then assess the reasons for difficulties with communication and whether the patient needs further assistance conveying what they need.

A Nurse Who Is Performing a Preoperative Assessment Finds That