A client just received a diagnosis of cancer.
Which statement by the nurse best demonstrates empathy?

A surgical sponge left in a client’s incision is a “never event”.

A “never event” is a serious, largely preventable safety incident that should not occur if the available preventative measures are implemented1.

These events include things like wrong-site surgery or foreign objects left in a person’s body after an operation2.

Choice A is incorrect because no blood incompatibility during a blood transfusion is not a “never event”.

Choice C is incorrect because a client falling in their own home is not a “never event”.

Choice D is incorrect because inserting a urinary catheter before surgery is not a “never event”.

Asking “What types of food do you eat for meals and between meals?” is considered a culturally sensitive question because it shows respect for the individual’s dietary habits and preferences.

Choice A is not correct because asking “Are you required to pray in a certain way at certain times?” may come across as intrusive or judgmental.

Choice C is not correct because asking “Are you familiar with the way we prepare meals?” may come across as presumptuous or dismissive of the individual’s cultural background.

Choice D is not correct because asking “Are you okay with not having kosher meals?” may come across as dismissive of the individual’s dietary needs or religious beliefs.