A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for a mastectomy. The client tells the nurse. "I'm not sure I want to have a mastectomy." Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Choice A Reason:

"I can give you a list of other people who had the same procedure." - This response might not address the client's concerns and could potentially violate privacy and confidentiality.

Choice B Reason:

"I can give you additional information about the procedure." Response B is an appropriate and supportive response. The client is expressing uncertainty about the mastectomy, so offering more information about the procedure can help the client make an informed decision. Providing accurate and detailed information allows the client to better understand their options and the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.

Choice C Reason:

"You will be cancer-free if you have the procedure." - Making a guarantee of being cancer-free after the procedure might be misleading and overly optimistic. While a mastectomy can treat cancer in some cases, it's important to provide realistic information.

Choice D Reason:

"You should get a second opinion regarding the procedure." - While seeking a second opinion can be valuable, this response might not directly address the client's immediate concerns about the procedure. Providing information first and then discussing the option of a second opinion might be a more balanced approach.

Choice A Reason:

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) - While COPD might influence the choice of anaesthesia and perioperative management, it is not a direct contraindication to heparin.

Choice B Reason:

Thalassemia - Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects haemoglobin production and the structure of red blood cells. It does not directly impact the ability to receive heparin.

Choice C Reason:

Thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia, which is a low platelet count, is a contraindication to receiving heparin, an anticoagulant. Heparin works by preventing the formation of blood clots, but if a person has a low platelet count, their ability to form blood clots is already compromised. Administering heparin in this situation could increase the risk of bleeding and further reduce platelet count.

Choice D Reason:

Rheumatoid arthritis - Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition affecting joints. It is not a contraindication to heparin use, but the client's overall health and medications should be considered when planning surgery and anticoagulant therapy.