The nurse is assessing a patient admitted with a newly diagnosed bleeding duodenal ulcer.He is exhibiting physiological signs of anxiety and seems to have difficulty concentrating.During the interview,the patient tells the nurse that he is often "short of breath" and says,"I lie awake nights worrying about everything." He has been unable to work or care for his family for the past 6 months.What is the nurse's priority after documenting this information in the nurses' notes?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should involve a mental health professional immediately,because the patient is exhibiting signs of a disabling anxiety disorder.Although it is important for the nurse to provide emotional support for the patient,a mental health professional is needed for this patient.Doing nothing is neglectful.Questioning the patient's family about the information violates the patient's right to privacy,unless the nurse obtains the patient's permission to do so.

The Nurse Is Assessing a Patient Admitted with a Newly