Question

A client who is having presurgical testing before a colon resection and possible colostomy says to the nurse, "if i have to have this surgery, i know my partner will never come near me." what would be the nurse's best initial response?

Answer 1

You seem worried that the surgery will change how others see you" is an open-ended response that encourages further discussion. The response "You seem concerned that your partner will reject you" is too specific; the nurse does not have enough information to come to this conclusion. The response "You are wondering about the effect on your sexual relations" is too specific; the nurse does not have enough information to come to this conclusion. The response "You are probably underestimating your partner's love for you" denies the client's concern and may cause feelings of guilt for questioning the partner's love.