Question

A female client having presurgical testing prior to a total abdominal hysterectomy says to the nurse, "When I have this surgery I know my husband will never come near me." The nurse's best initial response is, "You're:

1. underestimating his love for you."

2. wondering about the effect on your sexual relations."

3. worried that the surgery will change how others see you."

4. concerned about how your husband will respond to your surgery."

Answer 1

The nurse should respond by addressing the client's concern about her sexual relationship, which acknowledges her feelings without making assumptions about her husband's reactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's best initial response to the client's concern about her husband's reaction to her total abdominal hysterectomy is: "You're wondering about the effect on your sexual relations." This response acknowledges the client's feelings and directly addresses her concern without making assumptions about her husband's feelings or their relationship dynamics.

It opens the conversation for further discussion about the client's fears and provides an opportunity for the nurse to offer support and education regarding presurgical testing and postoperative expectations regarding intimacy and sexual function, which are often key concerns for patients undergoing this type of surgery.