The 24-year-old client who had laparoscopic surgery for removal of ovarian cysts tells the nurse she is having pain in the left shoulder. The nurse's best response is which of the following?

Question

1. "I'll contact your physician immediately."
2. "The pain is referred pain, and is common after laparoscopic surgery."
3. "Why do you think you are having a heart attack?"
4. "You are too young to have a heart attack."

Answer 1

2
Rationale: The nurse is aware that pain in the shoulder is a common occurrence after any kind of abdominal surgery. The nurse would explain the cause of the pain to the client to relieve her anxiety. Contacting the physician is not indicated in this case. The client wouldn't know why she thinks she's having a heart attack, and dwelling on this concept will only increase the client's anxiety further. It is better to explain that it is not true immediately. Telling her she is too young for a heart attack is negating the client's concerns without providing any real information.