Question

A high school student with a spinal cord injury tells his mother that he is anxious to return to school and continue with football activities. The most appropriate response by the nurse is:

a. Approach the patient about his denial
b. Help the patient focus on the plan for rehabilitation
c. Encourage the patient to talk about school activities
d. Review the injury and physical impact with the patient

Answer 1

The nurse should encourage the student to talk about school activities (option c), valuing the psychological and social aspects of recovery while also gently addressing the reality of the injury and rehabilitation process.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate response by the nurse to a high school student with a spinal cord injury who is anxious to return to school and continue with football activities is to encourage the patient to talk about school activities. While it is essential to address the reality of the injury and focus on rehabilitation, supporting the patient's psychosocial needs and allowing them to express their interests in school and football can be therapeutic. It can help the patient maintain a positive outlook and provide an opportunity for the healthcare team to discuss how the student can stay involved in school life in a new capacity, taking into account their injury.