A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about staff safety issues related to compassion fatigue. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the discussion?

Choice A reason: Publicly confronting coworkers when conflict arises is not appropriate. This approach increases workplace tension and can worsen stress, contributing to burnout and compassion fatigue. Effective communication should be respectful, private, and solution-focused rather than confrontational.

Choice B reason: Engaging in regular physical exercise is correct because it helps reduce stress, improves mood, and enhances resilience. Exercise promotes endorphin release, which counteracts the emotional exhaustion associated with compassion fatigue. It is a healthy coping mechanism that supports both physical and mental well-being.

Choice C reason: Encouraging a passive communication style is incorrect. Passive communication prevents nurses from expressing their needs and concerns, which can lead to frustration and unresolved stress. Assertive communication is more effective in preventing compassion fatigue by promoting healthy boundaries and teamwork.

Choice D reason: Establishing a strong employee code of conduct is important for organizational culture, but it does not directly address compassion fatigue. Compassion fatigue is best managed through self-care strategies, stress reduction, and emotional support rather than policy enforcement.

Choice A reason: Ambulation promotes peristalsis and reduces postoperative complications, but it should not be encouraged before assessing the underlying cause of nausea and pain. Without assessment, ambulation could worsen discomfort or mask complications.

Choice B reason: Inserting an NG tube is an invasive intervention reserved for confirmed cases of bowel obstruction or severe ileus. Performing this without assessment risks unnecessary trauma and patient distress.

Choice C reason: Auscultating for bowel sounds is the priority because it provides critical information about gastrointestinal motility and potential complications such as ileus or obstruction. Assessment must precede interventions to ensure safety and appropriateness of care.

Choice D reason: Administering an antiemetic addresses symptoms but not the underlying cause. Symptom relief without assessment could delay recognition of serious complications.