A client scheduled for surgery says, 'I'm not sure that surgery is the best thing to do.' What is an appropriate response by the nurse?

A client scheduled for surgery says, 'I'm not sure that surgery is the best thing to do.' What is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. I Think You Are Making the Right Decision to Have the Surgery
• B. You Are Very Ill. Your Health Care Provider Has Made the Correct Decision
• C. There Is No Reason to Worry. Your Health Care Provider Is a Wonderful Surgeon
• D. You Have Concerns About the Surgical Treatment for Your Condition

Answer: (D)

This question tests how to use patient-centered, empathetic communication to address a patient’s hesitation and support informed decision-making before surgery. Acknowledging and naming what the patient expressed invites them to share more and shows respect for their autonomy. Responding with “You have concerns about the surgical treatment for your condition” does two key things. First, it validates the patient’s feelings rather than dismissing them, which helps build trust. Second, it invites further discussion by identifying the exact worries, creating an opening for open-ended questions like, “What worries you most about having the surgery?” or “What information would help you feel more confident about this option?” This approach supports informed consent because the patient can verbalize preferences, ask questions, and receive information tailored to their concerns. Other responses tend to push the patient toward a decision or reassure without engaging the patient’s perspective. They can feel dismissive or coercive and may undermine autonomy or trust, which can hinder true informed consent.

This question tests how to use patient-centered, empathetic communication to address a patient’s hesitation and support informed decision-making before surgery. Acknowledging and naming what the patient expressed invites them to share more and shows respect for their autonomy.

Responding with “You have concerns about the surgical treatment for your condition” does two key things. First, it validates the patient’s feelings rather than dismissing them, which helps build trust. Second, it invites further discussion by identifying the exact worries, creating an opening for open-ended questions like, “What worries you most about having the surgery?” or “What information would help you feel more confident about this option?” This approach supports informed consent because the patient can verbalize preferences, ask questions, and receive information tailored to their concerns.

Other responses tend to push the patient toward a decision or reassure without engaging the patient’s perspective. They can feel dismissive or coercive and may undermine autonomy or trust, which can hinder true informed consent.