Question

The patient is to have thoracentesis at the bedside but tells the nurse that he is afraid and would like to cancel. The nurse sits with the patient and asks him to describe his fears. She then explains the procedure and assures the patient that she will be with him during the procedure. The patient agrees to have the procedure, and during the procedure, the nurse stays with the patient, explaining each step and providing encouragement. How has the nurse helped this patient?

A. Providing a presence.
B. Listening.
C. Providing touch.
D. Providing family care.

Answer 1

The nurse provided emotional support and presence, listened to the patient's concerns, and offered reassurance throughout the thoracentesis procedure, enhancing the patient's comfort and understanding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse has helped the patient by performing several actions that contributed to the patient's comfort and understanding of the thoracentesis procedure. By sitting with the patient, she provided emotional support and a reassuring presence, which can be deemed as 'Providing a presence'. While with the patient, she actively engaged in listening to his concerns about the procedure, offering an attentive ear and addressing his fears, which reflects 'Listening'. Though 'Providing touch' and 'Providing family care' are also important aspects of patient care, the nurse's actions in this scenario are most accurately described by offering reassurance and informational support during the patient's thoracentesis procedure at the bedside. This aligns with the broader clinical focus of ensuring a holistic approach to patient care, as seen in healthcare settings where effective communication and team coordination play critical roles. The actions of the nursing staff in confirming sterility, equipment availability, and other concerns before surgeries underscore the importance of thoroughness and attention to detail in a clinical setting.