Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What is the best approach for a nurse when discussing a potential stroke with a patient's family?

1. It's premature to worry, let's wait for the test.

2. You're right, organizing treatment is key.

3. Confirm symptoms and indicate tests will clarify.

4. Provide literature on strokes for the family.

The correct answer is: Confirm symptoms and indicate tests will clarify.

The most effective approach when discussing a potential stroke with a patient's family is to confirm symptoms and indicate that tests will clarify the situation. This choice is appropriate because it demonstrates a balance of empathy and professionalism, ensuring that the family feels heard and their concerns are acknowledged while also emphasizing the importance of diagnostic tests in determining the patient's condition. By confirming the symptoms, the nurse is validating the family's observations and worries, which can help build trust and rapport. It also provides an opportunity for the family to engage in the healthcare process, making them feel like active participants. Furthermore, indicating that tests will clarify the situation helps to alleviate some anxiety by highlighting that definitive answers will come from further investigation. This approach ensures that the family understands that while a stroke is a serious concern, steps are in place to obtain the necessary information for appropriate treatment decisions. In contrast, suggesting that it's premature to worry could diminish the family's concerns and create feelings of frustration or anxiety, as they might feel disregarded. Stating that organizing treatment is key, while acknowledging the seriousness of the condition, may come across as too assertive without initially addressing their concerns. Finally, simply providing literature about strokes without discussing the patient's symptoms and the next steps could leave the family feeling unsupported and disconnected from the ongoing