The nurse is changing a client’s dressing. Which observation warrants immediate physician notification?

D) “I understand that you would like some ice cream, but I need you to be more respectful when you ask me for something.” This is an assertive response because it acknowledges the patient’s request, expresses the nurse’s feelings, and sets a clear boundary for acceptable behavior. Assertiveness is the ability to communicate one’s needs, opinions, and feelings in a respectful and confident manner.

“You are hungry and want a snack. I can do that in 10 minutes when I finish my rounds.” is incorrect. This is a passive response because it does not address the patient’s rudeness or assert the nurse’s rights. Passive communication is the tendency to avoid conflict, suppress one’s feelings, and comply with others’ demands.

“Maybe I can get one of the aides to bring you something in a while.” is incorrect. This is an evasive response because it does not commit to fulfilling the patient’s request or confronting the patient’s attitude. Evasive communication is the tendency to avoid responsibility, give vague answers, and shift blame to others.

“Call the nursing station and ask them to have the kitchen bring whatever you want.” is incorrect. This is an aggressive response because it rejects the patient’s request, shows irritation, and implies that the nurse does not care about the patient’s needs. Aggressive communication is the tendency to dominate, criticize, and blame others.

Choice A reason: "There is no reason to worry. This surgeon has an excellent reputation.” is not the best nursing response. This response shows false reassurance, which is a communication technique that involves minimizing or dismissing the other person’s feelings or situation. It also shows authority, which is a communication barrier that involves using one’s position or status to influence or persuade the other person. It does not address the client’s emotions or needs, and may sound patronizing or condescending. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: “It sounds as though you have mixed feelings about the surgery. Can you tell me more about how you feel?” is the best nursing response. This response shows active listening, which is a communication skill that involves hearing, understanding, and responding to the client’s verbal and nonverbal messages. It also shows empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It acknowledges and validates the client’s emotions, and invites them to express their concerns or fears. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice C reason: "The benefits outweigh the risks. You can be confident that the surgery should be done.” is not the best nursing response. This response shows persuasion, which is a communication technique that involves using logic or evidence to convince or influence the other person. It also shows assumption, which is a communication barrier that involves making judgments or guesses about what the other person thinks or feels. It does not address the client’s emotions or needs, and may sound coercive or manipulative. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D reason: "You are bound to feel much beter once it is all over with.” is not the best nursing response. This response shows cliché, which is a communication technique that involves using overused or trite expressions that lack meaning or sincerity. It also shows avoidance, which is a communication barrier that involves shifting the focus away from the other person’s feelings or situation. It does not address the client’s emotions or needs, and may sound vague or insincere. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.