A patient who has had gastric surgery for cancer is denying the diagnosis of cancer. What should the nurse do?
1. The nurse should not argue with the patient but continue to provide emotional support as needed.
2. The nurse should remind the patient of the diagnosis.
3. The nurse should ask a clinical psychologist to talk with the patient.
4. The nurse should explain how many people with cancer live long, productive lives.
Correct Answer: 1
A patient with the diagnosis of cancer may be in denial. The nurse should not negate denial if present because it is a coping mechanism that protects the patient from hopelessness. There is no real need to remind the patient of the diagnosis. The patient is acting in a manner that can often be anticipated. At this point, there is no need for a clinical psychologist to intervene. Making a referral to a clinical psychologist is beyond the duties of the nurse. The patient is not emotionally prepared to discuss cancer survival at this time.
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