Question

A client is admitted for a wedge resection of the left-lower lung lobe after a chest radiograph revealed a lesion. The client is anxious and asks to smoke. Which statement by the nurse would be most therapeutic? "Smoking now is okay, but it's contraindicated after your surgery." "The health care provider left orders for you not to smoke." "You seem anxious about the surgery. Do you see smoking as helping?" "Smoking is the reason you're here."

Answer 1

The best response to a client anxious about surgery and asking to smoke is to address their anxiety and the role of smoking in their coping strategy. Smoking is linked to numerous health risks, including slower wound healing and increased postoperative complications, which are especially relevant when facing surgery. Nurses should provide support and education to encourage smoking cessation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When addressing a client who is anxious and asks to smoke before lung surgery, the most therapeutic response by the nurse would be, "You seem anxious about the surgery. Do you see smoking as helping?" This approach opens a dialogue about the client's anxiety and smoking habit without being judgmental. It's important to educate the client about the risks associated with smoking, especially in relation to surgery and recovery. Smoking leads to slower wound healing, increased postoperative complications, and a heightened risk for conditions such as lung cancer, heart disease, and emphysema.

According to the SURGEON GENERAL'S WARNING, smoking can cause severe health problems and may complicate pregnancy. Therefore, it is advisable for the client to refrain from smoking before the surgery and to consider quitting in the long term to improve overall health and recovery outcomes.