A nurse tells another nurse that she thinks he did not provide adequate care for a client who underwent hip arthroplasty. Which of the following responses by the nurse demonstrates assertiveness?

A. Primary care institutions, such as ambulatory care centers, are typically the first point of contact for patients within the healthcare system. They provide initial evaluations, treatment for common conditions, and ongoing care management. Primary care focuses on comprehensive and preventive services and is the entry point for patients seeking healthcare services.
B. Rehabilitative or long-term care is not the primary focus of a primary care institution. Rehabilitative care involves services designed to help patients recover functional abilities after illness or injury, while long-term care supports individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities over an extended period.
C. Disease-restorative care is more specific to settings that focus on managing and treating particular diseases or conditions, often in a more intensive or specialized manner. While primary care does address disease management, its primary role is broader, encompassing overall health maintenance, preventive care, and managing general health issues rather than solely focusing on restorative care for specific diseases.
D. While ambulatory care centers and primary care institutions primarily provide outpatient services, the term “only” is limiting and may not fully capture the scope of services provided. Primary care settings do indeed offer outpatient services, but they also play a broader role in coordinating care, preventive health, and sometimes providing minor procedures.

A. This response is defensive and confrontational. It does not address the concern about care quality but instead attacks the other nurse’s behavior and care standards. Assertiveness involves expressing oneself honestly and respectfully, which this response does not achieve.

B. This response is also defensive and dismissive. It implies that the criticism is personal rather than a professional concern, which can be seen as an emotional reaction rather than a constructive dialogue. Assertiveness involves addressing issues directly and professionally, not by questioning motives or personalizing the feedback.
C. This response indicates a lack of confidence or readiness to engage with the feedback constructively. It does not actively seek clarification or attempt to understand the specific concerns about the care provided. Instead, it focuses on the nurse's own feelings and attempts to justify their actions without engaging in a problem-solving discussion.
D. This response is assertive because it acknowledges the feedback, states the nurse’s perspective on the care provided, and invites further discussion to understand the concerns better. It demonstrates openness to feedback and a willingness to address potential issues constructively.