A patient who experienced a myocardial infarction was transferred from critical care to a step-down unit. The patient then used the call bell every 15 minutes for minor requests and complaints
Staff nurses reported feeling inadequate and unable to satisfy the patient's needs. When the nurse manager intervenes directly with this patient, which comment is most therapeutic?
a. "I'm wondering if you are feeling anxious about your illness and being left alone."
b. "The staff are concerned that you are not satisfied with the care you are receiving."
c. "Let's talk about why you use your call light so frequently. It is a problem."
d. "You frustrate the staff by calling them so often. Why are you doing that?"
ANS: A
This patient is experiencing anxiety associated with a serious medical condition. Verbalization is an effective outlet for anxiety. "I'm wondering if you are anxious…" focuses on the emotions underlying the behavior rather than the behavior itself. This opening conveys the nurse's willingness to listen to the patient's feelings and an understanding of the commonly seen concern about not having a nurse always nearby as in the intensive care unit. The other options focus on the behavior or its impact on nursing and do not help the patient with her emotional needs.
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