Question

Assessing the surgical patient's psychological state allows the perioperative RN to contribute to the plan of care by:

a) suggesting modifications to the patient's position
b) communicating effectively with other members of the perioperative team
c) ensuring the requisite supplies and equipment are readily available
d) providing explanation, comfort, and emotional support

Answer 1

The perioperative RN contributes to the plan of care by addressing the patient's psychological state, which involves providing explanation, comfort, and emotional support, as well as effective communication during critical procedures.

Step-by-step explanation:

Assessing the surgical patient's psychological state allows the perioperative RN to contribute to the plan of care primarily by providing explanation, comfort, and emotional support. This is crucial for catering to the patient's psychosocial needs which consist of an emotional support network essential for both care-giving and care-receiving activities. Effective communication with other members of the perioperative team is part of the broader responsibilities of the RN, which includes involvement in the 'Time out' and 'Sign in' procedures that ensure critical information and patient safety measures are verified before proceeding with surgery, but the psychological assessment specifically informs the approach to direct patient care.