A nurse is caring for a client with breast cancer who has undergone a mastectomy and is experiencing altered body image. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate to support the client's self-esteem and coping skills?
A nurse is caring for a client with breast cancer who has undergone a mastectomy and is experiencing altered body image. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate to support the client's self-esteem and coping skills?
A. Encourage the client to focus on the positive aspects of their life.
[3%]
B. Provide the client with educational materials on breast reconstruction surgery.
[6%]
C. Offer the client a support group to connect with others who have had similar experiences.
[90%]
D. Minimize the client's concerns by reassuring them that their appearance is not significantly different.
[1%]
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. Offering the client a support group to connect with others who have had similar experiences is an effective nursing intervention to address altered body image. It provides the client with a sense of community and validation of their feelings.
Choice A is incorrect. Encouraging the client to focus on the positive aspects of their life is a supportive intervention, but it does not directly address the client's altered body image.
Choice B is incorrect. Providing educational materials on breast reconstruction surgery is important, but it may not be immediately relevant to the client's current emotional state.
Choice D is incorrect. Minimizing the client's concerns by reassuring them that their appearance is not significantly different is not an appropriate nursing intervention. It invalidates the client's emotional experience and may hinder their coping skills.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
Altered body image
13.1 Psychosocial Stressors & Coping
Additional Info
✓ In a healthcare context, altered body image is commonly associated with conditions or treatments that lead to changes in physical appearance, such as scars, disfigurement, amputations, weight changes, or medical procedures like surgery. It can profoundly impact an individual's self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being, affecting their social interactions, relationships, and quality of life.
✓ It's important for nurses to recognize that perceptions of body image and beauty standards vary across cultures and may influence the client's reaction to their altered appearance.
✓ Encouraging the client to engage in self-care activities that promote self-esteem and body positivity, such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, or engaging in hobbies and interests.
