The nurse is caring for a patient in her 30s with two young children who has just had a modified radical mastectomy with immediate reconstruction
Although she's worried about her future, the patient seems to be adjusting well to her diagnosis. What nursing intervention is appropriate to support this patient's coping mechanism?
A) Tell the patient's spouse or partner to be supportive while she recovers.
B) Encourage the patient to proceed with the next phase of treatment.
C) Recommend that the patient remain cheerful for the sake of her children.
D) Refer the patient to the American Cancer Society's Reach to Recovery program or another support program.
Ans: D
Feedback: The patient isn't withdrawn or showing other signs of anxiety or depression. Therefore, the nurse can probably safely approach her about talking with others who have had similar experiences, either through Reach to Recovery or another formal support group. The nurse may educate the patient's spouse or partner to listen for concerns, but the nurse shouldn't tell the patient's spouse what to do. The patient must consult with her physician and make her own decisions about further treatment. The patient needs to express her sadness, frustration, and fear; she can't be expected to be cheerful at all times.
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