Question

A patient has arrived in the operating room for a bilateral mastectomy. She is crying uncontrollably. The ST can best console her by saying which of the following?

a) "Everything will be fine."
b) "It's too late to change your mind now."
c) "Let's focus on the positive outcomes."
d) "Crying won't help; you need to be strong."

Answer 1

The Surgical Technologist can best console an emotional patient undergoing bilateral mastectomy by saying "Let's focus on the positive outcomes," as it provides empathy and encourages looking toward a hopeful future.

Step-by-step explanation:

The situation described involves a patient undergoing a highly emotional and stressful procedure. In this instance, the appropriate response for a Surgical Technologist (ST) would be to provide empathy and encouragement. Among the options provided, the most supportive and professional response would be "Let's focus on the positive outcomes," which aligns with the idea that although the situation is difficult, there is hope for a positive future post-operation.

The other options are less suitable because they dismiss the patient's feelings ("Everything will be fine."), they might create additional stress by implying it's too late for any changes ("It's too late to change your mind now."), or they might come across as insensitive ("Crying won't help; you need to be strong.").