A 58-year-old woman tells the nurse, "I understand that I have stage II breast cancer and I need to decide on a surgery, but I feel overwhelmed. What do you think I should do?" Which response by the nurse is best?
a. "I would have a lumpectomy, but you need to decide what is best for you."
b. "Tell me what you understand about the surgical options that are available."
c. "It would not be appropriate for me to make a decision about your health."
d. "There is no need to make a decision rapidly; you have time to think about this."
ANS: B
Inquiring about the patient's understanding shows the nurse's willingness to assist the patient with the decision-making process without imposing the nurse's values or opinions. Treatment decisions for breast cancer do need to be made relatively quickly. Imposing the nurse's opinions or showing an unwillingness to discuss the topic could cut off communication.
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