A nurse is caring for a client following major spinal surgery who is reporting pain. The client's partner tells the nurse, "I wish I could do something to make my wife feel better." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
"It must be very difficult for you to see your wife in pain."
"I wish there was more that I could do to relieve your wife's pain, too."
"I'm sure your wife will begin to feel better soon."
"We're doing everything we can to keep your wife comfortable."
The Correct Answer is A
Answer: A
Rationale:
A) "It must be very difficult for you to see your wife in pain.": This response acknowledges the partner's feelings and provides emotional support. It shows empathy and validates the partner's experience, helping to build rapport and trust between the nurse and the family member.
B) "I wish there was more that I could do to relieve your wife's pain, too.": While this response expresses sympathy, it might unintentionally convey a sense of helplessness or inadequacy on the part of the nurse, which could increase the partner's anxiety or frustration.
C) "I'm sure your wife will begin to feel better soon.": This response is intended to be reassuring, but it can come off as dismissive of the partner's current concern and may not address their immediate emotional needs. It also makes a promise that the nurse cannot guarantee.
D) "We're doing everything we can to keep your wife comfortable.": This response provides factual information about the care being provided, but it does not address the partner's emotional distress. It focuses on the actions of the healthcare team rather than acknowledging the partner's feelings.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making it easier for viral infections to occur. Hypotension is not a common finding in chronic stress, as the body usually responds to stress by releasing adrenaline, which can increase blood pressure. Increased cognitive awareness and increased energy can occur in response to acute stress, but chronic stress can lead to mental and physical exhaustion.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
When a patient with heart failure begins treatment with an ACE inhibitor, the nurse should prioritize monitoring the patient's blood pressure because ACE inhibitors can cause hypotension. Oxygen saturation, choice A, may be important to monitor in some cases, but it is not the priority in this situation. Level of consciousness, choice C, and assessment for nausea, choice D, may also be important but are not the priority assessments in this situation.

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