Question

Which goal is appropriate and measurable for a patient who asks the nurse for help dealing with multiple work stressors?

A. Patient will identify current coping abilities.
B. Patient will verbalize awareness of feelings of anxiety.
C. Patient will verbalize or demonstrate reduced stress reaction.
D. Patient will meet psychological needs by appropriately expressing feelings.

Answer 1

An appropriate measurable goal for a patient dealing with work stressors is to identify and express stress-related feelings healthily on a weekly basis for a specified period. This goal can be tracked with tools like stress scales and can be supported with stress management techniques and mental health resources.

Step-by-step explanation:

An appropriate and measurable goal for a patient dealing with work stressors is to set specific emotional and psychological well-being milestones that are both assessable and achievable. Considering psychosocial health needs, a measurable goal might be: 'Patient will demonstrate improved stress management by identifying and expressing feelings related to stress in a healthy manner once a week for the next month.'

To ensure the goal is measurable, the nurse could use various tools such as a stress scale or journaling to track the patient's expression of emotions and coping techniques over time. Stress management techniques might include time management, mindfulness, exercise, or seeking counseling which are aligned with the goal of appropriately expressing feelings.

Additionally, the nurse should be aware of institutional resources, such as counselor availability and staff-to-student ratios, should the patient benefit from further mental health support. This is crucial since high-quality mental health services can significantly lower the incidence of psychophysiological disorders among stressed individuals.