The nurse cares for a young adult patient in the emergency room after a sexual assault.Which action by the nurse is appropriate?
A)Avoid situations in which the patient will be involved with decision making.
B)Tell the patient to join a local support group for sexual assault victims.
C)Actively listen to the patient express feelings related to the sexual assault.
D)Provide detailed information about evidence collection and invasive procedures.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Actively listening to the patient express their feelings related to the sexual assault is an appropriate action as it allows the patient to process their emotions and feeling heard may be comforting. It is important to provide emotional support in addition to medical care to promote healing. Avoiding situations where the patient is involved with decision making would not be appropriate as the patient needs to be informed and make decisions about their care. Telling the patient to join a local support group may be appropriate, but it should not be the only action taken by the nurse. Providing detailed information about evidence collection and invasive procedures without properly assessing the patient's comfort level and emotional state may cause undue anxiety and re-traumatization.

The Nurse Cares for a Young Adult Patient in the Emergency