The wife of a man diagnosed with prostate cancer appears disheveled and anxious during a visit to her husband. When the patient leaves the floor for testing, the nurse uses the opportunity to approach her
Which approach by the nurse is most therapeutic? 1. "Would you like to talk about your concerns?"
2. "You must be having problems with all of this."
3. "What is wrong?"
4. "I can see that you are having a difficult time."
1
Rationale 1: The spouse of a man diagnosed with prostate cancer is likely to experience stress and anxiety. It is important for the nurse to include her in the plan of care. Asking her to share feelings is a good starting point to assess for her specific needs.
Rationale 2: Stating that the wife "must" be having problems is a closed statement and does not promote communication.
Rationale 3: Simply asking "What is wrong?" may suggest that the wife has made an error or is presenting herself in a negative manner.
Rationale 4: Expressing that the nurse can see that the wife is having difficulties suggests a judgment about her coping abilities and is less effective at opening the dialogue than another approach.
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