A nurse is caring for a client with a recent spinal cord injury who is experiencing emotional distress. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate for supporting the client's psychosocial well-being during this transition?
A nurse is caring for a client with a recent spinal cord injury who is experiencing emotional distress. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate for supporting the client's psychosocial well-being during this transition?
A. Administer pain medication as prescribed to alleviate physical discomfort.
[2%]
B. Encourage the client to engage in self-care activities to promote independence.
[7%]
C. Facilitate a therapeutic conversation to explore the client's feelings and concerns.
[87%]
D. Provide the client with mobility aids to enhance physical mobility and autonomy.
[4%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Coping Mechanisms
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice C is correct. A client experiencing emotional distress, particularly after a significant event like a spinal cord injury, would benefit greatly from psychosocial support. Facilitating a therapeutic conversation allows the nurse to actively listen to the client's concerns, validate their feelings, and provide emotional support. This intervention helps the client express their emotions, cope with the psychological impact of the injury, and develop effective coping strategies for adjusting to their new situation.
Choice A is incorrect. While managing physical discomfort is essential for overall well-being, the client's emotional distress is the primary focus of this question. Administering pain medication may address physical discomfort but does not directly address the client's psychosocial well-being or emotional distress.
Choice B is incorrect. Promoting independence and engagement in self-care activities is an important aspect of rehabilitation, but it does not specifically address the client's emotional distress. Fostering independence can have positive psychosocial effects, but it does not directly address the emotional needs arising from the recent spinal cord injury.
Choice D is incorrect. Enhancing physical mobility and autonomy through the provision of mobility aids is important for rehabilitation and independence. However, this primarily addresses physical needs and does not directly address the client's emotional distress or psychosocial well-being following the spinal cord injury.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
Role Changes
13.1 Psychosocial Stressors & Coping
Additional Info
✓ Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team, such as social workers, psychologists, or counselors, to provide additional psychosocial support. Referral to support groups or counseling services specializing in spinal cord injury rehabilitation can offer valuable emotional support and coping strategies.
✓ Encourage the client to express their emotions openly and provide a supportive environment for communication. Active listening, empathy, and validation of the client's feelings are essential for building trust and rapport and promoting emotional healing.
✓ Monitor the client for signs of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns. Prompt recognition and appropriate management of mental health issues are vital for the client's overall well-being. Collaboration with mental health professionals may be necessary for comprehensive evaluation and treatment.
