Question

The nurse is evaluating a patient's responses to interventions to promote her self-esteem. The patient has a nursing diagnosis of Chronic Low Self-Esteem. The patient is moderately overweight.

Which of the following statements by the patient provides the most direct evidence of positive self-esteem?
a) "I've always been a little overweight, even as a child."
b) "When I look in the mirror, I can see that I've lost a little weight."
c) "My husband says he likes me at this weight."
d) "I've done a good job sticking to my diet this week."

Answer 1

The statement that provides the most direct evidence of positive self-esteem is "I've done a good job sticking to my diet this week." It signifies personal accomplishment and pride, both of which are crucial for positive self-esteem.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most direct evidence of positive self-esteem in the statements provided by the patient with a nursing diagnosis of Chronic Low Self-Esteem and being moderately overweight is d) "I've done a good job sticking to my diet this week." This statement reflects personal achievement and a sense of pride in her efforts, which are key indicators of positive self-esteem.

When evaluating self-esteem, especially in the context of health and wellness, it's important to look for evidence of personal agency, self-recognition, and positive self-reflection. Choices a), b), and c) focus on external factors or others' perceptions. In contrast, choice d) demonstrates the patient's internal acknowledgment of her own success, which can significantly impact her self-esteem. Acknowledging accomplishments, such as adhering to a diet plan, suggests that the patient recognizes her ability to take control of aspects of her life and health which is a strong indicator of improving self-esteem.

Ultimately, it is the personal empowerment and recognition of one's own efforts that provide the most direct evidence of improvements in self-esteem among patients dealing with weight management issues.