A physician expresses anger towards a nurse assisting him in the operating room in front of the patient and other team members because the nurse did not hand him instruments quickly enough.

The nurse later addresses the physician privately using the DESC tool. Which statement represents the “E” component of this tool?

Choice A rationale
This statement is more about describing the specific situation (the “D” in DESC) rather than expressing the nurse’s concerns (the “E” in DESC). It’s important to note that the DESC tool stands for Describe, Express, State, and Consequences. In this context, the nurse is merely stating what happened, not expressing how it made them feel or the impact it had on them.
Choice B rationale
This statement accurately represents the “E” component of the DESC tool, which stands for "Express your concerns"12. In this scenario, the nurse is expressing their feelings about the physician’s behavior and its impact on them. They’re stating how the physician’s actions made them feel uncomfortable, especially in front of other staff members and the patient. This is a crucial step in the DESC process as it allows the individual to express their feelings and concerns about the situation.
Choice C rationale
This statement is more aligned with the “S” component of the DESC tool, which stands for "State other alternatives"12. Here, the nurse is suggesting a different way for the physician to express their concerns in the future. While this is an important part of the DESC process, it does not represent the “E” component.
Choice D rationale
This statement represents the “C” component of the DESC tool, which stands for "Consequences stated"12. In this context, the nurse is outlining the potential outcomes if they cannot agree on an alternative approach. While this is a crucial step in the DESC process, it does not represent the “E” component.